Rescue Ship Bringing 2,000 Israelis from Europe Docks in Ashdod
Transportation Minister Regev: “A national mission that embodies Israeli mutual responsibility” – Dozens of buses provided for returnees
A week after the outbreak of hostilities with Iran and the closure of Israeli airspace, the first rescue ship of the “Safe Return” operation docked Friday morning at the Port of Ashdod. The ‘Crown Iris’ vessel, operated by Mano Maritime, brought approximately 2,000 Israeli citizens who had been stranded in Limassol, Cyprus following flight cancellations.
“An expression of mutual responsibility”
Upon the ship’s arrival, passengers were greeted by Transportation Minister and Cabinet Member Miri Regev, Ministry Director-General Moshe Ben Zaken, Ashdod Port Chairman Shaul Schneider, Port CEO Nissan Levy, and Alon Headquarters Commander Shilo Adler. About 50 accessible buses and minibuses were provided free of charge to transport returnees to key destinations including Tel Aviv, Be’er Sheva, Jerusalem, and Ashdod Railway Station.
Minister Regev stated: “The ‘Safe Return’ operation is a national mission and an expression of Israeli mutual responsibility. We continue to use all available means to bring Israeli citizens home safely.”
Preparations at Ashdod Port
Ashdod Port, designated a vital strategic facility, was prepared in advance to receive the vessel, implementing a rapid procedure, reinforcing security arrangements, and ensuring a fast and safe disembarkation process. Chairman Shaul Schneider remarked, “Port employees worked around the clock out of a sense of national duty.”
Transportation Ministry Director-General Moshe Ben Zaken added, “This is a complex logistical operation conducted in close cooperation with all relevant bodies. The Mano ship is the first, but not the last—additional passengers are expected to arrive in the coming days.” Port CEO Nissan Levy commented, “Between air raid sirens, we are dedicated to serving the economy’s needs and receiving rescue ships with commitment. This is a moment of Israeli unity of which we are proud to be a part.”
The Ministry of Transport emphasizes that the maritime space remains open and repatriation operations will continue in accordance with security directives and strict safety protocols.
IDF Expands Aerial Freedom in Iran: Air Force Strikes Missile Systems and Radars in Isfahan and Tehran
In recent days, the Israeli Air Force has struck multiple Iranian missile systems and radars in the regions of Isfahan and Tehran, targeting assets intended to intercept IDF aircraft operating there for the past seven days, the IDF Spokesperson reported Friday morning.
According to the IDF, the targeted systems were part of Iran’s air defense array designed to disrupt Air Force operations. This strike, part of a broader campaign, aims to expand the IDF’s aerial freedom over Iran following a strategic breakthrough toward Tehran.
It was further reported that fighter jets and other aircraft continue operating over Iran, attacking regime military targets in western and central regions of the country: “The IDF will continue to act to expand aerial freedom and achieve air superiority.”
What did the IDF accomplish in Iran overnight?
✈️60+ fighter jets struck dozens of military targets in Iran using approximately 120 munitions.
⭕️Several industrial sites used to manufacture missiles were struck in the Tehran area. These sites served as a key industrial center… pic.twitter.com/lQtxFIbFyc
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 20, 2025
Earlier today, three missile launchers poised to fire from Iranian territory toward Israel were destroyed. The launchers were identified through precise intelligence, and the strike was carried out to prevent further attacks as part of Operation “Rising Lion” (Am KeLavi).
Iranian Missile Hits Be’er Sheva: Seven Lightly Injured
Southern Israel began Friday morning with another missile barrage, one hitting Beer Sheva. Around 05:50, the IDF detected three launches from Iran toward Israeli territory. Shortly after, sirens were heard across the south, including in Be’er Sheva and the Yehuda region.
At 06:05, Home Front Command announced the end of the event and permitted residents to leave shelters.
Vehicles Catch Fire and Apartment Damaged
One of the missiles struck Be’er Sheva, causing several vehicles to catch fire and heavy damage to an apartment from interception debris. Firefighting units were dispatched to the scene and managed to control the blazes. Magen David Adom reported one person lightly injured and 30 others suffering from anxiety, all treated on-site by emergency teams.
MDA paramedic Dvir Ben Ze’ev said crews arriving at the scene encountered thick smoke, burning cars, and significant damage to one building and several apartments. Two casualty treatment stations were set up, while joint search operations with Home Front Command, fire services, and police were conducted to locate additional casualties.
Police confirmed the discovery of missile fragments in multiple locations in the south, including open areas. Security forces are conducting sweeps to ensure there is no ongoing threat.
