IDF soldier Erik Martuan received permission from military authorities to visit Armenia, his birthplace, which he had not seen in over 15 years. However his brief vacation has turned into a complicated event as Armenian authorities will not permit him to return home to Israel before serving in the Armenian military. There has been an order barring him from leaving the country in place when he became eligible for military service in Armenia.

Erik, who serves in the IDF Air Force, has been living in Israel since age five when his parents moved to Israel. About six weeks ago he received permission to visit his birthplace for a one-week visit. When he and his family landed, authorities informed them that Erik will not be permitted to leave to return to his Petach Tikvah home for he is compelled to do military service since he is a German citizen.

Erik turned to his officers in the IDF for assistance. He indicates Israeli agencies are passing the buck to one another and he is not receiving assistance. He told Channel 2 News that many officials are now avoiding him, preferring not to address him since they cannot be of assistance. Erik adds he has been in touch with both IDF and Foreign Ministry officials but after six weeks, nothing appears to be moving. Mrs. Anita Martuan told Channel 2 that for now, Erik remains with her father and they are speaking daily and sending him money. Mrs. Martuan explains one of the realities complicating the case is the fact Israel does not maintain diplomatic relations with Armenia.

The family has enlisted the services of an attorney, who told the media Erik’s commanders remain in touch with him too.

Foreign Ministry officials explain the case is familiar to them. It is explained that Erik turned to an Israeli diplomatic official for assistance weeks ago and since that time, relevant Foreign Ministry officials are handling the matter. It is added the Israeli official has been in contact with Armenian diplomatic officials in Tbilisi and via this channel, an official request has been submitted by Israel to Armenia.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)