Israel-Hamas war: Air India suspends flights to and from Tel Aviv till Oct 14

Digital Desk: Following the conflict that has broken out between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Air India will stop all flights to and from Tel Aviv, the country's commercial capital, at least till October 14.

On October 7, hours after Hamas fighters attacked nearby settlements and fired many rockets at Israel, Israel declared war. 

For the protection of its passengers and crew, Air India declared its flights to and from Tel Aviv will be suspended until October 14, 2023.

The statement also said that the airline would offer all assistance available to passengers who have confirmed reservations for the flights that are currently being cancelled.

The former national airline of India, Air India, operates five weekly flights to Tel Aviv. On Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, there will be a flight to and from each of these days.

The aviation corporation abruptly halted all of its services for Tel Aviv on October 7; the suspension of flights until October 14 was formally announced the next day.

Notably, the number of deaths in the Israel-Hamas fighting has surpassed 300. According to reports, between 100 and 200 Israelis—both military and civilians—have perished; however, the Palestinian authorities estimate that number to be end to 200.

 

Israel began dropping bombs on the Gaza Strip region in response to the militant strike by Hamas, which has been dubbed the bloodiest in the last couple of decades. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sternly warned Gazan population to escape because his forces would be "wiping out all Hamas locations" in a statement.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a statement posted on X, said India stood in solidarity with Israel.“Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour," he tweeted on October 7.