Air India has canceled its scheduled flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv on October 7, along with the return flight, following a recent attack by the Hamas terrorist group in Israel. The decision was made in the interests of passenger safety and the well-being of the flight crew, according to a statement released by Air India.
The affected flights, AI 139 and AI 140, were part of Air India’s weekly service to Tel Aviv. AI 139, originally departing from New Delhi at 3:35 pm and arriving in Tel Aviv at 7:05 pm, has been suspended. Likewise, the return flight, AI 140, which was scheduled to leave Tel Aviv at 10:10 pm and arrive in New Delhi at 7:00 am on Sunday, has also been canceled.
The surprise attack by the Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas, on Israel resulted in the loss of at least 40 lives and left hundreds injured. The attackers infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip via air, land, and sea. In response, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared war against Hamas, vowing that the group would face consequences for its actions.
India, in a display of solidarity with Israel, expressed support for the nation during these challenging times. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed a message of solidarity, emphasizing that India stands with Israel. The Israel Embassy in India conveyed its gratitude to India and Prime Minister Modi for their unequivocal support.
The international community also responded to the situation in Israel. The United States condemned the attack, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressing unequivocal condemnation of the “appalling attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israel.” UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself.
Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz decried the attacks and expressed solidarity with Israel, stating, “Horrifying news reaches us today from Israel. The rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence shock us deeply. Germany condemns these Hamas attacks and stands by Israel.”
In light of the ongoing situation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued an alert to Indian nationals in Israel, urging them to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols advised by local authorities. The advisory emphasized the importance of exercising caution, avoiding unnecessary movement, and staying close to safety shelters.
As tensions persist in the region, Air India’s decision to cancel flights underscores the gravity of the situation and the commitment to passenger safety. The world watches closely as efforts continue to address the escalating conflict in Israel and seek a path to peace.
Sources By Agencies
