Solomon Islands Government acknowledge Australia for airlifting Solomon Islanders back home from Israel amidst conflict

The Solomon Islands Government has acknowledged the help of Australia in providing the safe departure of Solomon Islands nationals from Israel following the ongoing conflict in the area.

The first 65 Solomon Islands nationals arrived in Sydney, Australia last night after they were transported out of Tel Aviv on board a Royal Australia Airforce flight on Tuesday 17^th October bound for Dubai.

Another 14 nationals were airlifted out of Tel Aviv on the 18 October and will be arriving in Brisbane at 22:20 tonight.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in consultation with Prime Minister Office had been working closely with the Government of Australia through the High Commission in Honiara to facilitate the safe return of the Solomon Islanders who were attending the Feast of Tabernacles program.

The Solomon Islands is grateful for the assistance rendered by the Government of Australia in providing safe passage for our nationals trapped in Israel after most commercial flights were disrupted since the conflict between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas began over a week ago.

The Solomon Islands Mission representative in Australia  welcomed the Solomon Islands nationals last night in Sydney and thanked the Government of Australia and their officials for the assistance.

Apart from their safe passage, Australia is also making arrangement for overnight hotel accommodation in Sydney before the group will travel to Brisbane today (Thursday 19^th October) in anticipation of their flight to the Solomon Islands.

The first group will arrive in Honiara on Friday 20^th October, while the second group will be home on Saturday 21^st October 2023.

ENDS//

-MFAET PRESS RELEASE