Investigation finds Israeli group behind Palestinian evacuation flights
In November, a plane carrying approximately 150 Palestinians from Gaza arrived in South Africa. This was one of at least three flights since May, transporting Gaza residents who had opted to leave the region. These flights have also landed in Indonesia…
In November, a plane carrying approximately 150 Palestinians from Gaza arrived in South Africa. This was one of at least three flights since May, transporting Gaza residents who had opted to leave the region. These flights have also landed in Indonesia and South Africa.
An investigation has identified the Israeli group Ad Kan as organizing these flights. Founded by Israeli soldiers and former intelligence officers, Ad Kan reportedly coordinated these operations through an intermediary company, Al-Majd, to minimize direct associations with Israel.
The passengers, fleeing ongoing conflict in Gaza, were largely unaware of the organizing entity but prioritized their need to leave. Many described dire conditions in Gaza, with some expressing relief at the opportunity to escape.
Ad Kan, known for its covert operations against groups perceived as anti-Israel, has been linked to these flights through Al-Majd, described as a humanitarian organization. The founder of Ad Kan, Gilad Ach, has previously advocated for the resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza.
In November, a plane carrying approximately 150 Palestinians from Gaza arrived in South Africa.
Ach has stated that the flights were intended as humanitarian efforts, designed to assist Palestinians seeking to leave Gaza. He emphasized that some passengers contributed to the costs of their transportation.
Financial arrangements for the flights were facilitated by American-Israeli businessman Moti Kahana. His involvement included organizing logistics for the flights, initially planned for destinations including Indonesia but later redirected to South Africa.
Passengers reportedly paid up to $2,000 per person via bank or cryptocurrency transfers. The arrangements included transportation from Gaza to Israel, where they boarded flights to their final destinations.
The flights have prompted regulatory responses, with South Africa revoking 90-day visa exemptions for Palestinian passport holders post-arrival, citing concerns over misuse linked to these emigration efforts.
There is no clear evidence of direct collaboration between Ad Kan and the Israeli government, though departures from Gaza require Israeli authorization. Official responses from Israeli authorities regarding potential return permissions for these individuals have not been provided.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
