The Indian embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a crucial advisory to Indian nationals residing in Israel, urging them to adhere strictly to safety protocols set by local authorities and to avoid unnecessary travel within the country. This advisory comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, emphasizing the need for heightened caution and proximity to safety shelters.
“Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country, and stay close to safety shelters. The Embassy is closely monitoring the situation and remains in regular touch with the Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of all our nationals,” read the advisory issued on Thursday.
Earlier the same day, the Indian embassy in Lebanon also issued a stern advisory to Indian nationals, strongly urging them to leave the country. The consulate has advised against travel to Lebanon until further notice and has urged those who remain to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and stay in contact with the Embassy of India in Beirut.
In light of the volatile situation, Air India announced on Friday a temporary suspension of flight operations to Tel Aviv until August 8, 2024. The airline stated on social media, “In view of the ongoing situation in parts of the Middle East, we have suspended scheduled operations of our flights to and from Tel Aviv with immediate effect up to and including 08 August 2024. We are continuously monitoring the situation and are extending support to our passengers with confirmed bookings for travel to and from Tel Aviv during this period, with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. Safety of our guests and crew remains our foremost priority.”
The situation in Israel escalated following a rocket attack on a football field in the Golan Heights on July 27, 2024, allegedly carried out by Hezbollah militants from Lebanon. This attack resulted in the tragic deaths of 12 children. The strike created a two-meter-wide crater, disrupting the area where the children were playing. The aftermath included scattered burned-out bicycles, scooters, and electric bikes with melted batteries. Neighboring tents and shelters were also damaged by shrapnel from the rocket attack. Hezbollah has denied Israel’s claims regarding the attack.
The recent violence has intensified following the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas, which resulted in over 1,400 deaths, as reported by Al Jazeera. The border between Israel and Lebanon has since been a hotspot for clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters. Tensions were further heightened by the assassinations of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. On July 31, 2024, Israel assassinated Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and claimed to have killed Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif on July 13, who was considered the mastermind behind the October 7 attacks.
