Camilla Jessen
As conflict in the Middle East intensifies, Poland has launched civilian evacuation missions.
A Polish military evacuation flight touched down safely in Warsaw, carrying 160 people—including Polish citizens, Ukrainian nationals, and other foreign passengers—amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.
The flight departed from Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, and marks the first in a series of planned evacuations by Poland.
Deputy Foreign Minister Henryka Mościcka-Dendys confirmed the operation during a press briefing on Tuesday, emphasizing that Poland had taken steps to ensure the safe return of its citizens and those of friendly nations.
“There were several Ukrainian citizens on today’s flight,” she said.
Poland Acknowledges Ukraine’s Past Support
The Polish government’s gesture is not without precedent.
Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry Paweł Wroński recalled Ukraine’s assistance during Poland’s own evacuation from Lebanon in 2024.
Speaking to a Ukrinform correspondent, he stated, “Ukraine once assisted us… and Poland will do the same for Ukrainian citizens in times of crisis.”
Wroński reiterated that Poland remains prepared to provide continued assistance should the situation deteriorate further.
More Evacuations Planned
Poland has allocated two military aircraft for these operations, with additional flights departing from Jordan and Egypt.
A second evacuation flight is scheduled to leave from Amman on June 20, bringing home 65 more citizens.
The move follows a strong advisory from Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, urging all Ukrainian citizens to leave Israel and Iran immediately and avoid returning until regional security stabilizes.
