United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have both announced the suspension of flights to Israel as tensions escalate in the region.
United Airlines Halts Flights
Effective Wednesday evening, United Airlines has temporarily suspended its flights between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). This decision follows a previous suspension of flights to Israel in October 2023, after Israel declared war on Hamas in response to a violent invasion of its borders and ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. United had resumed flights in the spring of 2024 but has now halted services again for security reasons.
“Due to security concerns, we have suspended our daily Tel Aviv service as we evaluate our next steps,” a United Airlines spokesperson stated. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will make decisions regarding the resumption of service with a focus on the safety of our customers and crew.” The timeline for the resumption of flights remains unclear.
Delta Air Lines Follows Suit
Delta Air Lines has also suspended flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Tel Aviv through August 2. The airline has issued a travel waiver for customers who booked flights to or from Tel Aviv before August 14.
“Delta is continuously monitoring the evolving security environment and assessing our operations based on security guidance and intelligence reports,” said a Delta spokesperson. “We will communicate any updates as necessary.” Delta’s flights to Israel had resumed in June 2024. Seats on Delta partner airlines, including Air France and EL AL Israel Airlines, remain available for booking through Delta’s website and reservations.
Escalating Regional Tensions
These suspensions occur against a backdrop of escalating tensions, including the recent assassination of Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Iran. Responsibility for the assassination has not been claimed, according to The Associated Press.
Current Situation
The suspensions follow reports from Reuters that several airlines temporarily reduced flights to Beirut, Lebanon, after a deadly rocket attack targeted the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights.
Both airlines are responding to the heightened security concerns in the region, prioritizing the safety of their passengers and crew amidst ongoing geopolitical developments.