Omagh man who escaped war-torn Israel describes experience as 'eye-opening'

AN OMAGH man who recently returned home safely from war-torn Israel has described his experience as "eye-opening".

Jamie Fagan, 26, was in the Bethlehem area to teach dance to young people, and had visited the Ibda'a Centre in the Dheisheh Refugee camp when hostilities broke out in the region.

An anxious wait of four days followed, with conflict deepening by the hour and growing concerns about the viability of air travel.

Luckily, Jamie was able to board a plane from Tel Aviv to Turkey on Wednesday of last week, before arriving home safely to the UK on a connecting flight to London.

Jamie, who runs a local dance group called Urban Motion, said his experience in Israel was "unforgettable, despite the tragic conflict".

"My time spent in the region was nothing short of eye-opening," he said. "I had the privilege of teaching some remarkable children and students, and I forged unforgettable connections and friendships.

"Despite the tragic conflict that began on Saturday, the experiences and memories from my time there will forever hold a special place in my heart.

"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your incredible support during this challenging time. Your kind messages, offers of assistance, and unwavering support have meant the world to me

"It means more to me than words can express, and I incredibly relieved to be back home safe and sound."

The latest violence has caused more than 1,400 deaths in Israel and more than 2,800 in Gaza as of October 16, according to authorities on both sides.

A humanitarian crisis in Gaza is also rapidly spiraling,amid warnings that people are at risk of starvation as Israel tightens its chokehold on the territory.

"My thoughts are with all those who have been affected by the ongoing conflict," Jamie continued. "I sincerely hope for a swift resolution and the safety of everyone involved.

"It is during times like these that we must come together as a community and support one another in any way we can."

Meanwhile, another Omagh native, Michael Kelly, also returned to safety from the war-torn region last week.

Editor of the Irish Catholic, Mr Kelly had been leading a pilgrimage to Jerusalem with 52 others. They arrived home safely to Dublin Airport on Thursday of last week.

Luckily, the group were located in Nazareth, around 200km from the conflict. As a result, the pilgrims were able to see a number of landmarks, including the sea of Galilee, before their departure.

Michael extended his thanks via social media to every their prayers, support and good wishes, and also paid special tribute to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin and the Embassy of Ireland in Tal Aviv for their guidance and concern.