Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated following a rocket attack on the Druze town of Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights, which resulted in the deaths of 12 children and teenagers. Despite Hezbollah denying responsibility for the attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed a strong response, declaring that “Hezbollah will pay a heavy price.”
The aftermath of the attack has had significant implications for air travel. Flights to and from Beirut airport have been either canceled or delayed. Air France, citing the security situation in Lebanon, has suspended flights between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Beirut on July 29 and 30. Similarly, Lufthansa, Swiss, and Eurowings of the Lufthansa Group have decided to suspend their flights to Beirut until August 5 due to the ongoing developments in the Middle East.
Lebanon’s Middle East Airlines (MEA) has also experienced disruptions to its schedule, attributing them to insurance risks associated with the current situation. Turkish Airlines, SunExpress, AJet (a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines), Aegean Airlines, Ethiopian Air, and MEA have all canceled flights to Beirut. These cancellations have raised concerns about the potential for a full-scale war between Israel and Hezbollah.
The rocket strike in the Golan Heights has further heightened tensions between Israel and the Iranian-backed group. In response, Israel’s security cabinet has authorized the government to retaliate. The situation has had a significant impact on Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, the country’s sole airport. The airport has previously been targeted during Lebanon’s civil war and conflicts with Israel.
MEA has announced delays in the departure of some flights and additional delays for flights scheduled to land on Monday due to “technical reasons related to the distribution of insurance risks for aircraft between Lebanon and other destinations.” The ongoing cross-border exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and the Israeli military, as well as the broader conflict in Gaza, have disrupted flights and shipping in the region.
Given the current developments in the Middle East, Lufthansa has already suspended night-time flights to and from Beirut. The situation remains fluid, and airlines continue to monitor the security situation closely.
In conclusion, the rocket attack on Majdal Shams has intensified tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, leading to the cancellation and delay of flights to and from Beirut airport. The potential for a full-scale war raises concerns about the stability of the region. As airlines prioritize the safety of their passengers and crew, flight disruptions are likely to continue until the situation improves.
