Netanyahu Expels Ben Gurion Airport Workers' Union Head from Likud Over Strike

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday night the expulsion of Pinchas Idan, chairman of the Airport Authority Workers' Union, from the Likud party. The decision followed a disruptive and illegal strike at Ben Gurion Airport that caused significant harm to Israeli citizens and the economy. Idan contested the claim that the union initiated the strike, stating on Kan News that the Airport Authority management declared it. He explained the strike stemmed from workers' exhaustion and scheduling conflicts, warning that similar disruptions could recur if staffing issues remain unresolved.

The Finance Ministry estimated the strike's cost at approximately 30 million shekels, factoring in lost fees, canceled flights, delayed cargo, and other economic impacts. Beyond financial losses, the strike damaged Israel's reputation among international airlines, exacerbating already high flight prices due to ongoing cancellations over the past three years and reduced foreign airline service.

Sharon Kadmi, CEO of the Airport Authority, criticized the union for "brutal unilateral actions" during the strike and denied claims that workers were expected to work 13-hour shifts. Kadmi emphasized ongoing recruitment efforts to address staffing shortages, noting the challenges of rapidly increasing workforce capacity. The strike caused severe disruptions at Ben Gurion Airport, including a complete halt of check-in counters and temporary suspension of landings, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

The Airport Authority blamed the union for the chaos, while the Histadrut labor federation stated no official work stoppage order was given and highlighted repeated warnings about severe staff shortages. Flight operations gradually resumed after rescheduling. Netanyahu warned that anyone obstructing airport operations would be removed from their position. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between airport management and workers amid critical staffing challenges ahead of peak travel seasons.