The Royal Australian Air Force is sending KC-30A and C-17A Globemaster III transport planes to the Middle East for an airlift mission in response to the Hamas attacks.
The mission is part of an ongoing government-supported private charter that flies Australian citizens and other country’s nationals from Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport to Dubai, UAE.
Since the deployment commenced on October 13, a total of 236 people have been evacuated through the military-led departure flights.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles explained the steps the government is taking to ensure the safety of its people from the Israel-Hamas conflict.
“The activation of two Defence aircraft provides critical options for Australia as the conflict in Israel continues to evolve,” the official said.
“Australian nationals and visa holders who wish to leave Israel should ensure they are registered with DFAT [Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade] via their crisis portal.”
Further Departures Expected
Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Sen. Penny Wong stated that over 1,200 citizens registered on the portal have now left Israel and Palestine.
These initial departures recorded more than 400 Australians on four Australian government-assisted flights.
“We continue to consider options to assist Australians who want to leave Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” the senator said.
“We encourage Australians who want to leave to take the first option available, do not wait for a different option.”
Similar Approach in Future Scenarios
According to the Australian Department of Defence, the government is weighing alternatives to pursue military-assisted departure flights for similar scenarios in the future.
“Australians in the affected areas who want to leave or need assistance with departure should register via DFAT’s Crisis Portal or by calling the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas) or 1300 555 135 (from within Australia),” a notice from the agency said.