The RNZAF C-130J Hercules Aircraft departs RNZAF Auckland Base for the Middle East. Photo: NZDF/Jalesa Normani
The NZ Defence Force (NZDF) plane sent to the Middle East to assist any stranded New Zealanders in Iran or Israel has returned to Aotearoa, because it was not needed.
The C130-J Hercules was sent to the region two weeks ago, as a contingency for when airspace in the region reopened.
A NZDF spokesperson said as regular commercial flights resumed in Israel, and were starting to become available from Iran, the defence force began to "draw down the contingent" in the region.
"It was positioned in the Middle East region to provide an alternative means of evacuation for New Zealanders, but was not required," the spokesperson said.
"Other personnel deployed to support New Zealand's consular efforts have also returned to New Zealand."
The spokesperson said the NZDF was proud of its personnel for deploying at short notice and being ready to respond, in case they were needed to assist New Zealanders in leaving Israel and Iran.
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