Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked has ordered Ukrainian refugees who land Israel to be transferred to hotel rooms immediately following reports they have been forced to contend with inadequate conditions while waiting at Ben-Gurion International Airport. One airport worker described refugees sprawled out on the floor and children sleeping on conveyor belts as they wait for government approval to enter the country.
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According to the Population and Immigration Authority, 5,107 foreigners with Ukrainian passports have arrived in Israel since the outbreak of the war, of whom 187 were denied entry.
In a statement, the authority said: "Those landing at the airport receive service around the clock and as necessary." Noting that when a few flights land at around the same time, this can overwhelm the staff.
he Population and Immigration Authority said its staff "are sensitive to the Ukrainian citizens and regardless of whether their entry is approved or refused, we ensure appropriate and dignified treatment of every single passenger. The waiting is the result of the need for questioning, and in these instances, those being questioned continuously receive sandwiches and beverages." It said those who are refused entry are flown back to the safe country they departed from.
