Mexico Sends Humanitarian Flights to Repatriate Nationals amid Israel Conflict
Mexican Army Assists Nationals in Israel
The Mexican army is currently conducting humanitarian flights to bring back Mexican nationals from Israel amidst the ongoing conflict with the Palestinian group, Hamas. In a surprise attack on Saturday, Hamas took an unknown number of hostages, including two Mexicans, according to Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena.
Mexico Maintains Neutrality
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador emphasized Mexico’s stance of neutrality in the conflict during a press conference on Monday. He urged the United Nations to convene all member countries to seek a peaceful resolution. Lopez Obrador stated, “More than condemnation, what is required is a search for peaceful solutions, that there is dialogue and that further confrontation and violence is avoided.”
Repatriation Efforts in Progress
Approximately 5,000 Mexican nationals are currently in Israel, with around 300 requesting repatriation, as reported by Lopez Obrador. The defense ministry confirmed that a plane with a capacity of about 170 passengers departed on Monday morning, and a second plane was scheduled for later in the day.
Concerns in Latin America
Besides Mexico, other Latin American countries have also expressed concerns about their citizens in Israel. Peru’s foreign ministry reported two missing citizens, while local authorities identified a missing Panamanian citizen. Additionally, two Paraguayan citizens were reported missing, according to the country’s foreign ministry.
This humanitarian effort by Mexico demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad. By conducting these repatriation flights, Mexico aims to ensure the safety and well-being of its nationals affected by the conflict in Israel.
