- First UK Government facilitated flights arrive in the UK and Cyprus with another successfully departing Israel on Saturday afternoon
- Further Government flights are planned with specialist teams deployed to support vulnerable British nationals
- British nationals in Gaza told to be ready if the Rafah crossing opens
Three UK Government facilitated flights have now departed Israel for the UK and Cyprus, with more expected in the coming hours.
Two UK Government Rapid Deployment Teams (RDT) and British Red Cross responders have also been deployed to support vulnerable British nationals wanting to leave on the flights.
The UK is also working with Israeli air controllers and the air industry to try to maintain commercial air links and keep a range of transport options under review. While commercial flights remain limited, a small number of routes between Israel and Europe, including the UK, are open.
Earlier this week, the Government advised British nationals in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Gaza, to register their presence with the Foreign Office to receive the latest updates on departure options and updates on the security situation.
The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to parts of Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and to advise against all but essential travel to all other parts.
James Cleverly, the Foreign Secretary, said:
"The UK is committed to supporting British nationals in Israel and Gaza following this brutal terror attack by Hamas.
"The safety of all British nationals is our priority and we urge everyone to continue to follow our advice and register their presence so we can
