Germany Steps Up Evacuation Efforts for Citizens in Israel Amid Regional Tension
Berlin contemplates Israel evacuation plans
With tensions heightening in the Middle East, particularly after the Israel-Iran military escalation, Germany has jumped into action to safeguard its citizens residing in Israel. On June 16, 2025, the German government officially kicked off evacuation operations for its nationals from Israel[1].
Already experiencing a swell in the Elefand crisis preparedness list, currently boasting around 4,000 German nationals[2], the federal government is leaving no stone unturned to bring their citizens home. After an initial scramble to find viable options, a possible evacuation route through land convoy to neighboring Jordan is now in the works[4].
In a statement, a Foreign Office spokesman in Berlin acknowledged, "We're exploring all options," despite the closed airspace initialy making it unviable[2]. The federal government's crisis team held a meeting again on Monday to address this matter[2]. German nationals residing in the region are encouraged to register on Elefand to ensure direct contactability during these uncertain times.
Poland, too, is gearing up for a land convoy to transport its nationals to safety, announcing intentions to travel by land to Jordan, with subsequent flights taking them back home[3]. Slovakia is also working tirelessly to airlift its citizens out of the crisis region. On Monday evening, the first of two government aircraft sent to the region was expected to return to Bratislava[5].
As adjacent countries responsibly respond to their nationals' safety, it remains uncertain if other European governments will follow suit. With individual Romanians reportedly departing Israel via land routes—namely Jordan and Egypt—Romania's government has not yet divulged any official plans for evacuation[6].
Every passing hour, the situation remains fluid, and the German government continues to liaise with its citizens in the region, offering guidance on the best course of action[5]. Expect more updates as the evolving security environment unfolds.
- Federal Government (Germany, Poland, Slovakia)
- Israel
- Middle East Conflict
- Berlin
[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
Despite the increasing tension in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Iran military escalation, the German federal government has been drafting and revising its community policy, including the employment policy, to ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens residing in Israel. In the ever-changing geopolitical landscape of the Middle East conflict, the German government continues to engage in general-news discussions about possible employment policies that could aid in the safe return of its nationals.
