DBU Group Remains in Israel, Set to Return Wednesday

Currently, there is still a group of 9 members of the DBU Family in Israel who were part of a larger group of 18 that included students, alumni, and friends on an Israel tour that was set to conclude on Saturday, October 7. 

They were scheduled to depart on October 7 when fighting broke out in Southern Israel, away from where the group was staying. Many airlines suspended service to and from Israel this weekend after the surprise attack began on Saturday morning.

In response to the cancelations, other flight arrangements were made.

As of now, 9 of the 18 individuals have departed Israel, and the remaining 9 are scheduled to depart tomorrow, Tuesday, October 10, arriving back in Dallas by Wednesday. All members of the group that are still in Israel are safe and accounted for.

Those remaining are 3 DBU students, 3 DBU alumni, and 3 DBU faculty and administration members, including Dr. Jay Harley, DBU Vice President for Student Affairs; Dr. Brent Thomason, Dean of the Graduate School of Ministry; and Dr. Blake Killingsworth, Dean of the Cook School of Leadership.

The leaders of the group continue to work tirelessly to ensure all individuals make it back to Dallas as quickly and safely as possible. The group leaders and the DBU Administration are also in communication with local contacts, US government officials, and monitoring flight statuses.

“Our experience here in the Holy Land was transformative. Our group commented regularly that the visit to Biblical and historical sites helped them more fully understand the background of the Bible. Although we are certainly tired and ready to be home, our group is remaining in good spirits and are currently at a secure hotel,” stated Dr. Jay Harley.

“Our thoughts and prayers have remained with our group and for this evolving conflict in Israel,” stated Dr. Adam Wright, DBU President. “We are praying our team home and have remained in constant contact with appropriate officials within the United States government regarding the safe return of our group.”