Israel Warns Citizens Against Traveling to Athens and Larnaca Amid Return Challenges

Concerned that many Israelis stranded abroad might consider traveling through Greece and Cyprus as a way to return home, Israeli authorities issued a statement on Sunday advising against it. With Israel’s airspace remaining closed for both arrivals and departures due to tensions with Iran, officials are also urging citizens trapped abroad not to use land crossings through Egypt and Jordan. Authorities warn that it could take weeks for the tens of thousands of Israelis stranded overseas to return home safely. According to reports from The Times of Israel, approximately 50,000 Israelis are believed to be stranded abroad. Channel 12 estimated on Sunday (June 15, 2025) that the number could reach around 100,000 after Israel closed its airspace early Friday during military operations against Iran’s nuclear program. Ben Gurion Airport halted all flights indefinitely. “There is no recommendation for Israelis residing abroad to travel to Larnaca or Athens at this stage with the intention of boarding a return flight to Israel from there,” stated Israel’s Airport Authority. Even when security conditions allow flights to resume, they will remain limited to minimize risks and ensure passenger and aircraft safety.