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The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) began rescuing Brazilians from the conflict zone in Lebanon. The KC-30 aircraft took off at 5:18 pm and is on its way to Lisbon, where it makes a technical stop on the way to São Paulo. The note issued by the Brazilian government informs that 229 Brazilians embarked in Beirut, including 10 infants, in addition to three domestic animals. They are expected to arrive in São Paulo this Sunday morning.
Named Operation Raízes do Cedro, the rescue was ordered by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva following the intensification of the confrontation between Israel and the Hezbollah group. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira negotiated with Lebanon and neighboring countries the security of the rescue.
The objective is to rescue citizens who are in the country and interested in returning to Brazil. At least 3,000 have already asked Itamaraty for help. “Priority is being given to the elderly, women, children and people with disabilities,” said Lula on his Instagram account. The president will receive the refugees at Guarulhos airport.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs monitors 20 thousand Brazilians residing in Lebanon. On this first flight, there is a multidisciplinary team with doctors, nurses and psychologists to support passengers. Last year, the FAB carried out Operation Returning in Peace, when 16 thousand Brazilians were evacuated from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. More than 50 domestic animals also traveled.
Flexibility for pets
The Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has relaxed the rules for the entry of dogs and cats accompanied by repatriated citizens and refugees from the Middle East. This special protocol allows animals to enter without the immediate presentation of health documents required under normal conditions.
