Immigration and Absorption Minister Ofir Sofer (Religious Zionist party) was in Azerbaijan when Israel launched the war on Iran. He returned to Israel overnight Sunday after a tense journey home, under heavy security and great concern for his life.

On Friday night, citing risks to his life, Sofer [who is Shomer Shabbos] was flown to Athens. On Sunday, he traveled to Larnaca, Cyprus, and then to Limassol. He returned to Israel late Sunday night by yacht, under heavy security throughout the journey.