Israeli tourists stuck in Sarajevo after their passports were discarded, authorities say it was an accident

The incident involved around 50 travelers who had been due to return to Israel yesterday but were unable to depart without their documents. Zarko Laketa, director of the Service, told public broadcaster BHRT that the passports were mistakenly thrown away and stressed that the case was not intentional.

Some tourists, however, expressed doubts that the loss was merely a mistake.

BiH authorities said they are working urgently to resolve the issue in cooperation with the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade, and that replacement travel documents should be issued soon. Officials confirmed the tourists could be able to return home as early as Monday.

In the meantime, the Sarajevo hotel has provided accommodation and meals for the group. “The Service for Foreigners’ Affairs immediately offered assistance in the issuance of new travel documents and will remain available until the matter is resolved,” the institution said in a statement.