Thousands of Israelis Stranded Abroad After Flight Cancellations

Thousands of Israelis are stranded in Dubai and across the Middle East due to widespread flight cancellations. Passengers report feeling abandoned by the state, with airlines directing them to seek refunds from the government. The situation has led to significant distress, with reports of exorbitant prices for rescue flights, some reaching $600, in addition to hotel costs. Families with children and elderly individuals are waiting at airports without assistance.

Despite ongoing rescue operations and the arrival of some flights in Israel, many remain stuck abroad. The cancellations, stemming from a dramatic hijacking attempt, have created chaos and uncertainty. One passenger expressed frustration, stating, "The state knew how to cancel in one moment, but to find a solution? Not at all. It's simply a disgrace."

Travelers describe arduous journeys, with airlines rebooking them on convoluted routes involving multiple layovers and demanding they arrange onward travel independently. Some have incurred significant personal expenses for unexpected hotel stays and flights. Passengers also complain about unhelpful airline representatives and difficulty reaching customer service.

Concerns are also raised about luggage left behind and the lack of support for vulnerable travelers, including families with children, the sick, and the elderly. Airlines are reportedly telling passengers that the government is responsible for refunding canceled flights, while simultaneously charging inflated prices for new tickets, with one passenger reporting a price increase during the booking process.

Some Israelis are resorting to purchasing expensive tickets to other destinations in Europe or Cyprus and then booking separate flights back to Israel, incurring thousands of dollars in additional costs. Airlines maintain that they are not responsible for the final return of passengers to Israel, despite passengers' belief that this falls under their obligation.