We know that many of you will be wondering what will happen to young lions Ori and Ben-Tzur following the outbreak of war.

Although it is too early to say exactly when and how, we can promise we will bring the boys home to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa, as soon as possible.

The lions were seized by Israel’s Police and Nature & Parks Authority during a crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking. We have been working intensely on the relocation for the past few weeks; purchasing travel crates; adapting a habitat; setting up ground transport and flights.

Before this weekend, we were just one import permit away from securing their flights and bringing them home to South Africa. The events of the past few days have seen air space closed and flights grounded throughout the region. Qatar Airways Cargo reported this week that their animals in transit are stuck where they are, and all being cared for in their airport facilities. Even when things start to move again, there will be aircraft in the wrong places and a backlog of cargo.

Thankfully, the team in Israel report that the boys are safe, but this is a dangerous and volatile situation, so right now we are on standby.  We expect the disruption in flights and a backlog of cargo will result in an increase in costs, but we are sure you will agree that we must seize the first opportunity to bring them home. This may be at a financial cost.

Please help. Your support for the relocation is more important than ever. Make sure we get Ben-Tzur and Ori home to South Africa. Donate US $, CA $ | Donate £, Euros, Rand