Navigating corporate evacuations in Israel and Lebanon
As airstrikes intensify in Lebanon and Israel, businesses are now being forced to consider evacuating their staff from the region. While governments focus on getting their citizens out, international companies must navigate the complexities of evacuating employees while balancing operational needs.
Our Risk Intelligence Manager, Andrew Devereux, recently discussed this on BBC World Business Report, sharing insights on how businesses are handling evacuations in the conflict zones, and how Healix is providing support.
Current evacuation landscape
Evacuations are already underway, especially in Tel Aviv, where requests are rising. Although regional airlines and Israeli domestic carriers continue to operate, international airlines are suspending flights, making it harder to secure travel. Commercial flights remain the primary option due to cost and ease, but as the conflict intensifies, alternatives like ground or maritime routes may be necessary.
Evacuation process for businesses
When companies opt to evacuate, the process is complex. First, essential details must be gathered: evacuee locations, numbers, medical needs, and intended destinations. Each factor affects potential routes and timelines.
For large-scale evacuations, a team leader coordinates logistics, ensuring that staff receive clear instructions on timing and transportation. Decisions must be quick, as evacuation options can close within 24 hours. In some cases, staying in a secure location until safer extraction options become available may be the best course, especially if government-sponsored flights are arranged.
Balancing risk and speed
As the situation evolves, businesses face pressure to act swiftly. While commercial options are still available, they are becoming increasingly unreliable, with cancellations or delays. Ground and sea routes, though complex, may become essential.
Timely, strategic decisions based on reliable intelligence and risk assessment are critical to ensuring employee safety in high-risk areas, while balancing operational needs with the urgency of the situation.
Listen to the full segment on BBC World Business Report, broadcast on 24 September 2024. Go to 10:29-14:10 to hear more from Andrew: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct609t
