Israeli Strikes Cause Chaos and Stranded Passengers in the Middle East
The recent Israeli strikes in Iran have caused chaos and disruptions in the region, leaving many stranded and unable to travel due to closed airports and restricted airspace.
Aimal Hussein, a 55-year-old Afghan businessman, was staying in a hotel in the Iranian province of Qom when Israeli strikes landed nearby. Desperate to return home, he found himself unable to leave as all flights and taxi services were shut down.
The conflict between Israel and Iran intensified as Israel launched a major attack on Friday, targeting senior military officials, nuclear scientists, and critical infrastructure in Tehran and other areas. In retaliation, Iran has responded with hundreds of drones and missiles.
The ongoing attacks have forced most countries in the Middle East to close their airspace, resulting in the closure or severe reduction of operations at dozens of airports. This has left tens of thousands of passengers stranded and others unable to flee the conflict or travel back home.
Retired pilot and aviation safety expert John Cox explains that the airport closures will have a massive impact, with thousands of passengers, crews, and airplanes affected. Zvika Berg, an Israeli traveler, experienced this firsthand when his flight from New York to Israel was rerouted to Larnaca, Cyprus. He is now stranded at a hotel, trying to decide his next move.
Israel has closed its main international airport, Ben Gurion, until further notice, leaving over 50,000 Israeli travelers stranded abroad. The country’s three airlines have relocated their jets to Larnaca.
In Tel Aviv, Mahala Finkleman, a stranded Air Canada passenger, is stuck in a hotel and taking shelter in the underground bunker during waves of overnight Iranian attacks. She is trying to reassure her worried family back home while waiting for news on when she can return.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has caused chaos and disruptions in the region, leaving many stranded and unable to travel. With airport closures and restricted airspace, the situation remains uncertain for those affected by the attacks.