Shadowy Group Transports Gaza Palestinians to South Africa
On October 28, a chartered flight carrying 153 Palestinians from Gaza arrived at an airport close to Johannesburg, South Africa. The flight, organized by a group known as Al-Majd Europe, left local officials caught off guard, as many passengers lacked proper travel documents. After nearly 12 hours on the tarmac, they were allowed to disembark with assistance from a local charity.
Details of the Flight
The flight operation was marked by confusion. South African authorities were unsure why the passengers had no exit documentation. Upon arrival, they struggled to determine the group’s plans for accommodation and duration of stay in South Africa. The charity Gift of the Givers offered accommodation, leading to the passengers’ release from the plane. Approximately 23 individuals returned to other destinations, further complicating the situation.
The Role of Al-Majd Europe
Al-Majd Europe, which operates as a purported evacuation service from conflict zones, is at the center of scrutiny. This organization is alleged to have connections with Israeli authorities. Reports indicate that Al-Majd is led by Tomer Janar Lind, a dual Israeli-Estonian national involved in a unit that facilitates the transfer of Palestinians from conflict areas.
Background of Al-Majd Europe
Founded in 2010 and registered in Germany, Al-Majd Europe has faced accusations of misleading practices. Their website, created relatively recently, offers few details about their operations and includes alarming claims regarding necessary travel arrangements. The organization reportedly required Palestinian families to pay between $1,400 to $2,000 each for travel, often through personal accounts rather than organizational ones.
Controversial Practices
Passengers boarded the aircraft unaware of their final destination. Reports suggest that a selective process screened applicants based on familial status and security checks coordinated with Israeli military authorities. Families were bused to Ramon Airport after passing through the Karem Abu Salem crossing.
Previous Similar Flights
This flight is not an isolated incident. Earlier in the year, another flight reportedly transported 57 Palestinians from Gaza in a similar fashion. These arrangements have raised concerns regarding the authenticity and ethical implications of Al-Majd Europe’s operations.
Response from Palestinian Authorities
The Palestinian embassy in South Africa condemned the flight, describing Al-Majd Europe as an unregistered organization exploiting vulnerable families under crisis conditions. Authorities have warned Gazans about potential schemes aimed at forcibly relocating them, driven by interests that align with Israeli policies.
Conclusion
This operation raises critical questions about the intentions behind such flights and the individuals or organizations facilitating them. As investigations unfold, the complexity of migration, humanitarian assistance, and allegations of exploitation remains at the forefront of discussions surrounding the Gaza conflict.
