Israelis Flee Occupied Land by Sea as Government Bans Departures

Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- With air routes closed and Israeli airports under tight restrictions, growing numbers of Israeli settlers are attempting to flee by sea, reported Haaretz. New government instructions prohibit citizens currently inside the occupation state from boarding rescue flights, which are now limited to Israelis abroad.

The Israeli government had ordered commercial airlines to deny boarding to settlers seeking to leave. The alleged reason is preventing overcrowding at Ben Gurion Airport and avoiding potential mass casualties in the event of attacks.

The decision has triggered a wave of panic. In recent days, marinas in Herzliya, Haifa, and Ashkelon have become departure points for hundreds seeking to escape the occupation state by yacht. Online groups have emerged offering what they call “alternative evacuation routes” to Cyprus and other destinations.

Passengers are paying up to 6,000 shekels (over $1700) for spots aboard small vessels. In many cases, the boats are not properly equipped, insured, or licensed for international travel. Captains report that most passengers are reluctant to speak publicly and are unwilling to share their identities.

Some claim they are reuniting with family abroad. Others admit they are leaving out of fear. A few openly say they are escaping the growing threat of Iranian retaliation.

At the Herzliya marina, one woman told Haaretz: “There are a lot of boats leaving. People are in a frenzy.”