The Netherlands Deploys Military Aircraft to Evacuate Citizens from the Middle East

The Dutch government has announced that a military aircraft will depart this Sunday evening for the Middle East to evacuate thousands of Dutch citizens stranded in the region amid escalating security tensions.

Thousands of Assistance Requests

Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp stated in remarks reported by local media that approximately 11,000 Dutch nationals have requested help to return to their home country. He noted that many citizens are facing difficulties reaching airports due to long distances and transportation challenges.

Coordination Between Ministries

The head of Dutch diplomacy also emphasized that travel in the region can be complicated, specifying that the Foreign Ministry has sought support from the Dutch Ministry of Defense to facilitate the return of nationals to the Netherlands.

Military Aircraft Mobilized

For her part, Defense Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz confirmed that the evacuation operation will commence this Sunday, utilizing a military aircraft of the type Airbus A330 MRTT, belonging to the Royal Netherlands Air Force.

Proposed Itinerary for Repatriation

According to the same source, the aircraft is expected to follow a route through Oman and then Egypt, before returning to the Netherlands. Authorities have indicated that the operation has been conducted with great caution in recent days.

Possibility of Additional Flights

The minister finally clarified that thousands of people are still awaiting evacuation, adding that more flights could be organized if necessary, while further details will be communicated to the concerned citizens in due course.