A grave and escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas has left more than a thousand people dead and thousands injured as both sides continue to engage in hostilities.
The situation has led to a significant impact on international travel and safety advisories. I
The latest round of hostilities in the Middle East began when Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack from Gaza into Israel.
Israeli authorities reported that over a thousand people have died, and thousands are injured. In response, the Israeli Defense Forces declared a “state of alert for war,” and the situation remains highly volatile.
The Israeli Health Ministry reported that as of Thursday, at least 1,200 people have died in Israel, with 2,900 others injured.
Meanwhile, in Gaza, the Palestinian Health Ministry said 1,417 casualties, including 447 children and 248 women, occurred as retaliatory airstrikes by Israel continued to take their toll. Approximately 6,268 people in Gaza are also reported to be injured.
The conflict has prompted various international travel advisories and warnings, reflecting the severity of the situation.
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US State Department Elevates Israel Travel Advisory to Level 3
The US State Department has elevated its advisory for travel to Israel and the West Bank to a Level 3, urging travelers to reconsider travel due to terrorism and civil unrest.
Gaza is under a “do not travel” advisory. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued cautionary statements to US airlines and pilots regarding flights in Israeli airspace, highlighting a potentially hazardous situation.
The FAA’s Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued on Saturday and updated on Tuesday, emphasizes that there are no restrictions for US operators to operate into or out of Israel at the moment. However, caution is still advised.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) also issued a Conflict Zone Information Bulletin for Israeli airspace, recommending that air operators have robust risk assessments and contingency plans while staying prepared for short-notice instructions from Israeli authorities.
The ongoing conflict has significantly impacted air travel in the region. As of Thursday morning, major US airlines and numerous foreign carriers have suspended service to and from Israel.
American Airlines has canceled flights to and from Tel Aviv through December 4, with plans to adjust as the situation develops. Delta Air Lines has suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv until the end of October, expressing solidarity with those affected by the conflict.
United Airlines announced the suspension of its flights to and from Tel Aviv until conditions allow for their safe resumption.
Air Canada also canceled several flights to and from Tel Aviv through Friday, with the situation under constant review.
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Source: ABC News
