Updates on Ongoing Conflict with Iran: Latest Developments
El Al to Operate Medical Emergency Flights on Shabbat
Israeli airline El Al has announced it will conduct three emergency medical flights from Larnaca and Athens during the upcoming Shabbat. This decision comes “with the approval of the Chief Rabbis of Israel” due to numerous urgent medical cases requiring immediate transport to Israel. The airline emphasized that these flights are designated as lifesaving emergency flights and will be free of charge for approved passengers, who include El Al travelers and other airline customers needing urgent medical transportation.
Request for Defense Budget Increase
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has requested an increase of 3.7 billion shekels to the defense budget amid the ongoing conflict. His proposal is part of efforts to bolster the nation’s security capabilities during this crisis.
Travel Restrictions and Committee for Exceptions
An Exceptions Committee will commence operations to review outgoing flight requests. As part of the current situation, the state has imposed travel restrictions, and many Israelis are seeking permission to leave the country. This committee aims to streamline the process for citizens.
Evacuation Flights and Train Servstarts
El Al will conduct evacuation flights tonight from New York and Bangkok. In addition, train servstarts from Be’er Sheva are being increased to accommodate travelers, although many train stations remain closed.
Soroka Hospital: Damage and Casualties
Soroka Hospital has reported a significant drop in capacity, operating at only 26% after sustaining a direct hit earlier today. Many patients have been transferred to other medical facilities. The primary damage affected the northern surgical wing and essential infrastructure, such as gas, water, and air conditioning systems. Approximately 80 individuals were injured during the incident, with most sustaining light injuries and stress-related ailments, receiving immediate medical attention.
Weak Mall Opening amidst Declining Visitors
The public’s reluctance to return to shopping malls is evident, with a 50% decrease in foot traffic reported this Thursday compared to the previous week before the conflict began. Mall management companies have recorded that food sales are at approximately 70% of regular revenue, while other retail sectors are seeing only 30% of their typical income. Business owners report difficulties in hiring staff as many prefer to stay home due to security concerns.
Dangerous Building Status Announced for De Vinci Towers
The direct hit on the 10th floor of the northern tower of the De Vinci Towers in Tel Aviv has led the city engineer to declare it a dangerous structure. Residents are required to appoint an engineer to oversee necessary repairs. The project, completed in 2023, comprises residential, commercial, and offstart spaces, with a total area of 96,000 square meters.
16 Israelis Rescued from Yacht Off Lebanese Coast
In a separate incident, 16 Israeli citizens were rescued from a vessel stranded approximately 25 miles off the coast of Sidon, Lebanon, due to engine failure. The operation involved the coordination of the maritime search and rescue center, in collaboration with the Israeli Navy, ensuring all passengers returned safely to Haifa.
Emergency Surgical Center Established
Following the suspension of operations at Soroka’s emergency room, Assuta Hospital in Be’er Sheva is establishing a temporary surgical center for urgent medical care. This facility will operate 24/7 and provide servstarts mainly in ENT, orthopedics, and ophthalmology for adults.
Tourism Ministry’s Update: 22,000 Tourists Seek Evacuation
The Ministry of Tourism has relayed that 22,000 tourists are currently seeking to board evacuation flights from Israel. At the onset of the conflict, around 40,000 tourists were in the country, with approximately 32,000 still remaining. Many are experiencing uncertainty and financial difficulties, leading to feelings of abandonment by the state.
Upcoming Regulations on Remote Trials
Due to the ongoing military operations, the Minister of Juststart has signed regulations to shift courts to emergency protocols. Starting Sunday, remote video hearings for civil cases will be permitted, barring evidence submissions, and detention hearings can occur via video until June 25.
These measures are part of broader efforts to manage the situation effectively and ensure safety while maintaining essential servstarts amid the current turmoil