AUCKLAND- The New Zealand (NZ) Government is collaborating with Etihad Airways (EY) to facilitate the safe departure of New Zealanders and eligible passengers from Pacific countries in light of the recent armed conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta made this announcement.
Additional information regarding the registration process will be provided through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs SafeTravel system.
New Zealand Partners with Etihad
Given the highly unstable situation in Israel and the OPT, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta emphasized that New Zealanders and Pacific island nationals who have the option to leave the region using other commercial airlines should do so immediately.
The government’s assistance is focused on aiding New Zealanders and Pacific island nationals who are encountering difficulties in securing commercial flight seats from Tel Aviv due to the overwhelming demand for bookings.
The inaugural flight will depart from Tel Aviv (TLV) and arrive in Abu Dhabi (AUH) in the coming days. Passengers will be responsible for their onward travel from Abu Dhabi to New Zealand, including any associated costs.
It’s important to note that the number of available seats on these flights is limited. As a result, individuals who already hold commercial flight bookings and wish to depart should not cancel or forego those bookings in anticipation of being assigned a seat on these flights. There’s no guarantee of seat availability.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade maintains direct communication with New Zealanders and eligible travelers in the region. Collaborative efforts are ongoing with partners to find solutions for New Zealanders who are facing difficulties securing flights out of the region.
For those in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, it is strongly encouraged to register on Safetravel. This will ensure you receive the latest information from the government and that your contact details are accurate and up to date.
Israel Hamas War
Meanwhile, as the conflict with Hamas entered its fifth day, the toll of rocket attacks and ambushes by the terror organization in Israel has surpassed 1,000 casualties, with over 2,800 people injured and 50 individuals either confirmed missing or taken hostage, according to the IDF. The IDF has also reported that more than 4,500 rockets have been launched from Gaza.
In response, Israeli airstrikes have led to over 770 Palestinian casualties. The Israel Defense Forces reported that dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets targeted more than 200 locations in the Al-Furqan neighborhood, a known terrorist stronghold from which Hamas plans and executes their attacks. This marks the third counterstrike in the area within the last 24 hours, involving the targeting of 450 locations.
The IDF stated that the Al Furkan neighborhood serves as a hub for Hamas activities aimed against Israel, functioning as a breeding ground for terror operations.
The Israel Air Force has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting powerful operations against the infrastructure of the terrorist organization Hamas, which is responsible for carrying out acts of terror against Israel. As part of its offensive strategy, the Israel Air Force continues to launch extensive waves of attacks in the Gaza Strip.
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