As Israel continues its war with Iran, El Al Airlines announced additional rescue flights and expanded efforts are underway to assist Americans and tourists stranded in the US and Israel.
El Al confirmed on Thursday that two rescue flights from New York and one from Bangkok are set to depart for Israel Thursday night. Passengers have already been notified. The airline also plans to operate more rescue flights next week from key international hubs, pending government approval.
Expected destinations include London, Paris, Larnaca, Athens, Rome, New York, Los Angeles, and Bangkok. A full list of incoming rescue flights—14 in total—is expected to be released later Thursday.
“El Al customers will be asked to confirm or update their preferred rescue location via an email being sent out,” the airline said. Passengers with valid tickets on canceled El Al or Sun d’Or flights will not be charged for rescue flights.
El Al and Sun d’Or are also allowing ticket-holders scheduled to fly through July 15, 2025, to cancel and receive a credit voucher. All new bookings through that date are temporarily closed.
U.S. Organizations Mobilize to Help Americans in Israel
Thousands of travelers, including yeshiva and seminary students, remain stranded due to the sudden closure of Israeli airspace. In response, several U.S.-based Jewish organizations have been working closely with the White House, State Department, Israeli officials, and embassies to coordinate repatriation efforts.
With Hashem’s help, the first incoming rescue flights landed Wednesday at Ben Gurion Airport. Outgoing rescue flights for foreign citizens are expected to begin imminently, with details forthcoming.
American citizens are urged to:
Enroll in the U.S. State Department’s STEP program to receive evacuation alerts.
Register via the Israeli Ministry of Tourism’s evacuation form.
U.S. citizens hoping to leave should also fill out the Amudim coordination form and be prepared to travel on short notice.
Alternate Travel Routes
Some travelers may consider exiting through Cyprus, Egypt, or Jordan. However, both the U.S. and Israeli governments have issued travel advisories for Jordan and Egypt. Any alternate route should be legal, coordinated, and safe.
Travel Tips for Departing Passengers:
Bring food for 48 hours.
Follow all instructions from officials and trip leaders.
Stay within baggage allowances.
Stay calm and respectful to avoid delays or entry denials.
In Egypt or Jordan, dress discreetly and avoid visible religious symbols. Tefillin must be stored inside luggage, and public minyanim should not be formed.
Community leaders continue to daven for Acheinu Bnei Yisrael and remain committed to assisting all those affected by this unprecedented crisis.
VIDEO: First rescue flight lands safely in Israel ‘Operation Safe Return’
