UK Charter Flight Departs Oman, Repatriation Efforts Intensify

0:00On March 5, the first UK government charter flight carrying stranded Brits from Oman has finally taken off nearly 19 hours late. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the departure during a Thursday press conference after technical issues and the pilot exceeding his flying. Hours grounded at the night before. This marks the start of official repatriation efforts amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. More than 4,000 people have already returned home on commercial flights from the United Arab Emirates, including vulnerable nationals. Seven more flights are set to leave there today, with additional charter's plan from Oman in the coming days. British airways is adding daily services from Muscat to London Heathrow. A route it does not normally fly. Passengers on the delayed flight grew frustrated, with some banging on windows and suffering panic attacks during the long wait. About 27-year-old woman paid £350 for a seat, but got no response and remained stuck.

1:00Families have shelled out up to £100,000 for private jets to flee Dubai. Meanwhile, other European countries, like Austria and Spain, successfully evacuated citizens overnight, with ministers greeting arrivals. In the conflict, Iran launched fewer missiles at Israel early Thursday, while Israeli strikes near Beirut killed three. The UK is sending four more typhoon jets to Qatar for defense. Efforts ramp up with partners to boost capacity and speed, as over 140,000 Brits are registered in the region. Official stress this massive airlift will continue until everyone gets home safely.