Ruslam Benco is doing everything in his power to safely bring his family back home to Canada. Currently in Tiberias, northern Israel, Benco and his wife, accompanied by their two young children, are facing uncertainty after Saturday’s unprecedented attack by Hamas. Benco describes the situation as something they have never experienced before, especially with their small kids. The family had initially come to Israel in late September to visit Benco’s wife’s family and have friends in the central part of the country who have been near the bombings. The escalating violence and the threat to their safety has compelled them to urgently seek a way back to Canada.
Benco has shared that securing a flight out of the country has proven to be an extremely challenging task. Major airlines, including Air Canada, American Airlines, United, and Delta, have all canceled flights to Tel Aviv. The family already has a flight booked for Italy next week, but they fear that it may also be canceled. Global Affairs Canada has stated that Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv is still open and some commercial flights are operating, but there may be last-minute cancellations.
The risk involved in going to the airport and the uncertainty surrounding the availability of flights have further complicated their situation. Benco admits that driving around in Israel currently holds significant risks. They have reached out to the Canadian Embassy in Israel for assistance but have received minimal support thus far. Benco expresses their desire to ensure their children’s safety amidst the ongoing war and the lack of guidance leaves them feeling helpless.
According to Global Affairs Canada, there are over 2,450 registered Canadians in Israel and 480 registered in Palestinian Territories. The organization has responded to over 785 inquiries since the conflict began on October 7, 2023. Most inquiries revolve around travel advice, airport status, security updates, and concerns about the well-being and whereabouts of family and relatives. Global Affairs Canada acknowledges reports of one Canadian death and three missing individuals and reassures that Canadian officials in Ottawa, Tel Aviv, and Ramallah are actively providing emergency consular assistance.
News reports from Israel indicate that approximately 800 Israelis have lost their lives, with over 2,600 injured. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports a death toll of 687, with 3,726 injured as of Monday. Among the missing are two Canadians, including Ben Mizrachi from Vancouver. Benco expresses deep concern about their safety if the bombings were to occur near their current location, emphasizing the lack of clarity about where to go or what actions to take.
Amidst the chaos and fear, Benco stresses the importance of prioritizing security and staying vigilant. He and his wife are striving to remain calm for the sake of their children while actively seeking a way to leave the country. Benco believes that taking security for granted would be a grave mistake, as breaches can lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations.
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