Ben Gurion Airport Workers Chair Criticizes Netanyahu After Dismissal from Likud Amid Operational Crisis

Pinchas Idan, chairman of the Ben Gurion Airport workers' committee, sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following his dismissal from the Likud party. The decision came after severe operational disruptions at Ben Gurion Airport, which led Netanyahu to remove Idan from the party. Idan stated in an interview with Kan News that he was a Likud member before Netanyahu and intends to remain so after him, dismissing the party's central committee membership as meaningless and asserting that Netanyahu cannot expel him from the party.

Idan also hinted at possible leadership changes ahead of upcoming elections, expressing doubts about continuing in his current role and signaling a clear message to Netanyahu. About a year ago, the Likud party court had decided not to expel Idan despite his involvement in airport shutdowns during protests against judicial reforms, after he expressed remorse. However, the recent disruptions prompted Netanyahu's decision to dismiss him.

Beyond political tensions, Idan warned of a looming crisis at Ben Gurion Airport during the upcoming holiday season, emphasizing that without recruiting more staff, the airport will not manage the increased demand. He accused the airport authority's management of failing to address the issue adequately and urged transparency with the public about recruitment challenges linked to security concerns. Idan denied allegations of strikes, blaming management for operational failures.

The airport has faced significant operational challenges this summer, including a declared "crisis event" due to severe processing delays, frozen check-in procedures, and passengers stranded for hours. Many travelers have had to fly without their luggage, and industry insiders warn of potential strikes during the peak travel season if conditions do not improve.