Pinhass Idan Denies Union Caused Ben Gurion Airport Chaos, Criticizes Smotrich's Accusations

Pinhass Idan, chairman of the Airport Authority workers' union, sharply responded to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's accusations following last week's disruptions at Ben Gurion Airport. The sudden halt in baggage handling caused delays for tens of thousands of passengers and flight cancellations that extended into the following day. Smotrich blamed "communist, forceful unions" for holding Israeli citizens hostage and called for dismantling such organizations.

In a personal letter to Smotrich, Idan denied that the union initiated the stoppage, expressing deep hurt over the unfair accusations. He emphasized that no union-led strike had occurred at Ben Gurion Airport since 2006, except for one by the Histadrut two years ago, and insisted he has led the workers responsibly for decades. Idan stated, "They pinned the blame on me. I did not shut down or close the airport."

Idan called for an investigative committee to determine who ordered the cessation of operations. He also criticized the Airport Authority management for failing to recruit sufficient staff, which could have prevented the crisis. However, he argued that even with staffing shortages, the airport could have continued functioning reasonably, noting that during peak wartime threats, Ben Gurion operated normally.

He expressed confusion over why the airport suddenly collapsed now and said he hopes the investigation will reveal the truth, though he doubts he will receive an apology. Idan highlighted his cooperation with the Finance Ministry and its wage supervisor and invited Smotrich to verify his responsible conduct. He concluded by lamenting the negative perception Smotrich holds of him.