UAE Creates Difficulties, Threatening Rescue Flights for Israelis

Rescue flights for Israelis attempting to return from the United Arab Emirates are facing renewed uncertainty due to difficulties raised by Emirati authorities. Israir Airlines announced the cancellation of a planned rescue flight scheduled for October 8, 2026, citing that approvals previously granted had been unilaterally revoked by UAE authorities. This cancellation follows earlier issues that had already put other flights in jeopardy.

Passengers booked on the now-canceled flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv received notifications from Israir explaining the situation. The airline expressed understanding for the distress caused and apologized for the inconvenience, stating that its teams are actively working with all relevant parties to explore options for the flight to proceed as planned or to find an alternative solution. Further updates were promised by 10:00 AM on October 7, 2026.

Earlier on the same day, the Ministry of Transportation had indicated that the operation to bring Israelis back from Dubai was scheduled to conclude on the upcoming Thursday. The ministry stated that initial flights from Dubai had already landed in Israel since Friday, and that the ministry, in coordination with relevant bodies, was working to ensure the swift and safe return of Israelis. The ministry also noted its continuous monitoring of passenger needs and efforts to adapt transportation responses to developments and demands, aiming to streamline the process and ensure flight continuity until the repatriation operation is complete.