When Hamas, branded as a terrorist, attacked Israel on Saturday morning, there were hundreds of Swedish citizens in the country. Several now testify that it has been difficult to get information from the embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
– It was impossible to arrive, says a relative.
They had hoped to receive more information and directions as to where it was best to go. But when they called the embassy, they were greeted by an answering machine.
Called number for urgent matters
There is also an emergency number at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for “urgent consular emergencies” which, according to the website, should be open around the clock, every day of the year.
– I called at least 30 times without getting an answer, says the relative.
Once they arrived, late in the afternoon, they were told to check the website – which in turn referred to the number they had already called.
– I think it’s absolutely horrible. They need to have a plan for how this type of event, says a relative.
After the tsunami disaster, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was criticized for being difficult to reach.
– One wonders if they haven’t learned anything, says a relative.
UD: Acted immediately
In a written comment to SVT, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ press service writes that they understand that relatives have been upset.
“The government office acted immediately when the problems arose, including bringing in extra staff”.
“We worked quickly to find a solution to the technical problems and already yesterday (Sunday, editor’s note) both the Swedish list and the possibility of reaching us via the Government Office switchboard worked again,” writes the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
– It is under all criticism, says a relative.
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