Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua has applauded the bravery shown by staff of Fiji Airways repatriation flight that flew into Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel yesterday morning to bring back Fijians who were there for an eight-day Feast of Tabernacle.
The group left Fiji on a chartered flight from Nadi to Tel Aviv on September 28 and were in Jerusalem when Hamas terrorists of Gaza breached Israel’s boundaries on Sunday, October 8.
With airlines from all over the world cancelling their flights into Tel Aviv because of the severity of situation, the Fiji Airways crew flew in and brought back more than 200 passengers.
“This flight not only brought back 198 of our fellow Fijians, but also 13 Fijians who were pursuing their studies in agriculture in Israel. They join a diverse group of international travellers on the same flight: 13 Australians, 16 New Zealanders, eight Samoans, two Canadians, two Filipinos, and two Americans,” Mr Tikoduadua said
“Such a vast and varied repatriation stands as a testament to our nation’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens and a demonstration of international solidarity.
“The audacious commitment of Fiji Airways, especially the valiant crew members who chose to fly into a nation at war, cannot be overstated. Their unyielding courage reflects the Fijian spirit of resilience and commitment, proving that the safety of our people is paramount. Their bravery stands as a testament to Fiji’s dedication and the lengths we are willing to go to; to protect and care for our own.”
Mr Tikoduadua said Government acknowledged the bravery shown by the crew, and every individual and entity that contributed to its mission.
“The stories of resilience, unity, and courage from our repatriated citizens and those still serving overseas bolster our national resolve.
“This operation and our ongoing efforts emphasise Fiji’s commitment to its people, our place as a responsible global actor, and our unyielding Fijian spirit.”
Meanwhile, Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa in a Facebook post said the courage shown by the Fiji Airways crew attracted so much interest and awareness on the capabilities of our national airline “na waqavuka eda beca, eda buturaka sobu (the plane that we disrespect, look down on) and now to see it actually land at Ben Gurion at the height of the latest Israeli ongoing battles esa vakaraitaka ga na cecere ni Kalou (it just shows how mighty God is)”.
Ms Kepa was also part of the delegation that left Fiji for the Feast of Tabernacles.
