Several international airlines have decided to extend the suspension of their flights to and from Israel, citing increased security concerns as tensions escalate in the region. The move comes after Israel raised its security alert in response to threats from Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.
As of Friday, ITA, the Italian airline, announced it would halt its flights to Tel Aviv until at least August 13. Similarly, Spanish airline Vueling has informed its passengers that flights to Israel will be suspended until the end of October. Air India also followed suit, extending its suspension of flights to and from Israel through October.
This brings the total number of international airlines that have paused operations in Israel to 20, reflecting the widespread concern over the current situation.
The increased security measures in Israel were triggered by fears of potential retaliation following the recent assassination of key figures in Hezbollah and Hamas. Israel has acknowledged the killing of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, while reports of the assassination of Hamas’ Political Bureau chief Dr. Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran remain unconfirmed.
These developments occur amid ongoing violence in Gaza, where an Israeli military campaign has resulted in significant casualties, further intensifying the conflict in the region.
Airlines are expected to continue monitoring the situation closely, with further extensions of flight suspensions possible if the security situation does not improve.