Problem
Evacuating 40 Lives from a Conflict Zone
Following the 13 June commencement of hostilities between Iran and Israel, the subsequent closure of Israeli airspace to non-governmental flights, and the change in our evacuation monitor to Evacuate Non-Essential Workforce on 16 June, many clients reached out to International SOS to urgently assist with evacuating their staff from Israel. Among these was a transport manufacturer with 36 employees in country, and a mother and her three children, based in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
These clients needed more than just transportation; they needed a trusted partner with on-the-ground expertise. Having access to real-time intelligence, we were able to guide them through a volatile and unpredictable environment.
Solution
A Coordinated, Secure Overland Evacuation
We were able to recommend the most viable option for both groups to depart the country on the same day: a secure ground movement by bus to Amman, Jordan, on 17 June. Drawing on recent operational experience from a January 2025 deployment and previous evacuation experience, we were able to advise that the clients use the Sheikh Hussein/Jordan River border crossing. Within a day of the request, we activated our credentialed in-country security partner, arranged the transport, complete with a secure escort on both sides of the Israeli and Jordanian border. Our team gave the clients a detailed briefing on what to expect during the journey, including potential delays, sheltering procedures, and border crossing logistics.
As the group traveled, missile alerts forced them to take shelter en route. We monitored the situation in real time, providing immediate guidance and reassurance to the convoy. At the border crossing, long queues and heightened security checks caused further delays. Our team remained in constant contact, answering questions and helping the group confidently navigate each challenge.
Impact
Safe Arrival in Amman
Despite the dangers and delays, the evacuation was a success. All 40 passengers arrived safely in Amman, where accommodation and onward flights had already been arranged. The clients expressed heartfelt gratitude for the professionalism, calm guidance, and unwavering support throughout the ordeal.
This operation demonstrated the critical value of having a trusted global Travel Risk Management partner with deep regional knowledge, operational readiness, and a commitment to Duty of Care, even in the most complex and high-risk environments.