From the Liveblog of
Monday, January 26, 2026
Tourism ministry develops plan to evacuate some 42,000 tourists in event of new Iran war
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on Google
The Tourism Ministry says it has put together a plan to evacuate the estimated 42,000 tourists now in Israel if the country is forced to shut its airspace amid fears of fresh conflict with Iran.
The ministry tells Channel 12 that even though it is not the sole responsibility of the ministry, it has developed plans for contacting the tourists and organizing transport to land border crossings.
“The ministry is ready to act immediately should the need arise,” the ministry says.
Yesterday, Israeli airlines announced they were easing the terms under which passengers can cancel tickets if necessary, amid concerns that a war with Iran may break out, which would likely ground flights.
As Israel remains on high alert over any potential escalation, a number of airlines have canceled some flights to and from the Middle East. During the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June 2025, Israeli airspace was effectively shut, leaving tens of thousands of people stranded.
US President Donald Trump is sending an aircraft carrier and other forces to the region and has repeatedly warned Iran that he could strike over the violent suppression of protests in Iran that killed thousands.
The Times of Israel Community.