A group of over 40 dairy farmers from the Westhoek District of West Flanders Province are stranded in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Their return flight was cancelled due to Donald Trump’s war against Iran. In Dubai, they can hear Iranian rockets exploding and have already had to take shelter in the basement of their hotel. ‘But the West Flemish dairy farmers are not minded to panic,’ explains Steven Verhille from Poperinge, whose parents are among the group stranded in Dubai.
The farmers are on their annual study trip. This year, they chose to take in Dubai in the Emirates. Steven Verhille: ‘There was already talk of increased tension in the region, but they were still allowed to leave because there were no problems at the time. That changed at the end of last week when all of a sudden Iran was bombed by the Americans and Israel. It quickly became clear that the region where they are staying was also involved in the conflict.’
Normally, the group was supposed to return on Tuesday. But their flight was cancelled. ‘At the moment, we are waiting to see what happens. Bookings are being made in the hope that the airspace will reopen to air traffic. We will have to see how this develops.’
‘We are in daily contact via WhatsApp, especially when they are at their hotel. They are continuing their programme with a guide and a bus, so they can still go on the tours they planned.’
‘There is no panic in the group, but I do think they will be happy to be back home in West Flanders soon. They are travelling in a group of 44 people, all from the same rural region. As long as they are together, they remain in good cheer.’
‘The group consists of both active farmers and young retirees. Most of them still work on their farms, but at this time of year it is possible to take a holiday.’
‘I have taken over my parents' business, so they don't need to worry. The animals are well cared for here!’