Air India has announced the suspension of all flights to and from Tel Aviv effective immediately, with the suspension in place until August 8. This decision comes in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The airline stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation fees for passengers with confirmed bookings.
“In view of the ongoing situation in parts of the Middle East, we have suspended scheduled operation of our flights to and from Tel Aviv with immediate effect up to and including August 8, 2024,” Air India said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “We are continuously monitoring the situation and are extending support to our passengers with confirmed bookings for travel to and from Tel Aviv during this period, with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. Safety of our guests and crew remains our foremost priority.”
This decision follows the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, where he had attended the swearing-in of Iran’s new President Masoud Pezeshkian. The assassination has further heightened tensions in the region, leading to increased security concerns.
Germany’s Lufthansa and its affiliate Swiss International Air Lines have also canceled all passenger and cargo flights to and from Tel Aviv until August 8. Additionally, they have extended their suspension of flights to Beirut, Lebanon, until August 12.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have declared a state of high alert, preparing for potential retaliation. The IDF’s heightened readiness comes after the assassinations of Hezbollah’s military chief in Beirut and Hamas’s leader in Tehran this week. While Israel has not claimed responsibility, Iran has accused the US of involvement and has threatened retaliation.
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF Spokesman, emphasized Israel’s preparedness: “We have proven recently that the State of Israel knows how to deal with threats in defense, and to respond with a mighty attack,” he said during a press conference.
