Croatia sends planes to evacuate citizens from the Middle East as security situation worsens

Croatia has begun organising evacuation flights for its citizens in the Middle East following a sharp deterioration in the security situation across parts of the region.

The Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs has issued an urgent advisory urging Croatian nationals in the Middle East and neighbouring countries to exercise maximum caution, remain calm and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Citizens have also been advised to avoid all travel to countries affected by the current crisis.

Those already in the region are encouraged to stay in secure indoor locations, limit movement, avoid public gatherings and closely monitor official information. In the event of communication outages, authorities advise remaining in a safe place until connections are restored.

Evacuation flights being organised

Croatia is actively coordinating evacuation efforts with relevant state bodies and aviation partners.

A Croatia Airlines aircraft has been engaged to assist with the evacuation of Croatian citizens from the region.

In addition, the government has arranged another aircraft in cooperation with aviation company AirTrade. This aircraft will collect Croatian pilgrims currently in Israel and transport them safely to Lyon in France, from where they will be able to travel onwards to Zagreb.

The Croatian Civil Aviation Agency is also in contact with several international airlines regarding potential evacuation flights.

Talks are currently underway with airlines including Etihad Airways and flydubai about the possibility of transporting additional groups of Croatian citizens.

Priority on evacuation flights will be given to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with health conditions.

Authorities are urging affected travellers to register with Croatian diplomatic missions using the contact details provided by the ministry.

Emergency alert system activated

Croatian citizens in affected areas who are using Croatian mobile numbers will receive safety alerts and instructions through the national Early Warning and Crisis Management System.

However, the ministry has also urged citizens to directly contact the nearest Croatian embassy or consulate to report their presence and receive further guidance.

Diplomatic network on standby

Croatian diplomatic missions across the Middle East and surrounding region have been placed on alert.

Embassies and consulates covering countries including Israel, Iran, Iraq, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey and Cyprus are assisting citizens and coordinating possible evacuations.

Officials in Zagreb and throughout the region are also working closely with European Union partners to exchange information and coordinate possible repatriation efforts if conditions on the ground allow.

Under EU rules, Croatian citizens located in countries where Croatia does not have diplomatic representation can request consular assistance from embassies of other EU member states.

The Croatian government says it will continue monitoring the situation closely and will organise additional evacuation options if necessary.