Poland Initiates Evacuation of Citizens from the Middle East Amid Rising Tensions

Poland has commenced a military operation to evacuate its citizens stranded in the Middle East due to escalating conflicts involving the United States and Israel's attacks on Iran. The operation began on March 5, 2026, with the first two military aircraft departing from Poland for Oman. Tourism Minister Jakub Rutnicki confirmed that thousands of Polish citizens, primarily located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), are affected by the situation.

Notes from Poland

Initially, the Polish foreign ministry ruled out military evacuations, citing significant risks and advising citizens to rely on commercial flights. However, increasing political pressure and reports of stranded nationals prompted a shift in strategy. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the deployment of military aircraft after a request to President Karol Nawrocki, who oversees the armed forces. The National Security Bureau confirmed the approval of a broader evacuation mission covering Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE.

Poland sets up 24-hour helpline for nationals stranded in Middle East as evacuation ruled out

As of early March, approximately 10,000 Polish citizens were reported to be in the UAE and Oman, with over 100 identified as needing medical assistance. While some individuals have returned via resumed commercial flights, the Polish government is focusing on those requiring special support. Rutnicki stated that six flights to Oman are scheduled, aiming to bring back around 1,000 citizens in the coming days.

Notes from Poland

Despite the government's efforts, there has been criticism regarding the initial decision to avoid military evacuations. Opposition voices have highlighted the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to assist Polish nationals. The foreign ministry's earlier stance of relying solely on commercial options faced scrutiny as the conflict escalated and airspace restrictions were imposed.

Poland sets up 24-hour helpline for nationals stranded in Middle East as evacuation ruled out

While the Polish government has confirmed that no citizens have been harmed in the conflict, there are discrepancies regarding the number of Polish nationals affected. Estimates suggest "several thousand" are in the broader Middle East, but not all travelers register with the government’s Odyseusz system, leading to uncertainty about the exact figures.

Notes from Poland

In response to the evolving situation, Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the government's responsibility to assist all citizens in need. He stated, “We must treat everyone, without exception, as our citizens who need government assistance in this difficult situation.” Foreign ministry spokesman Maciej Wewiór reiterated the importance of safety, urging citizens to remain calm and follow official guidance.

Notes from Poland

• “We must treat everyone, without exception, as our citizens who need government assistance in this difficult situation.” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

Notes from Poland

• “When the war ends, when the missiles and drones stop flying, when it is safe, our citizens will return to Poland,” — Maciej Wewiór, Foreign Ministry Spokesman

Notes from Poland

The Polish government is expected to continue its evacuation efforts while monitoring the situation in the Middle East. As commercial flights resume, officials will assess the ongoing needs of Polish citizens in the region and coordinate further military support if necessary.

Poland sets up 24-hour helpline for nationals stranded in Middle East as evacuation ruled out