Air India Suspends Tel Aviv Flights Till May 31 Amid Iran-Israel Conflict; Indians Seek Exit Routes via Jordan

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Air India has suspended its direct flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv, leaving thousands of Indian nationals in the region searching for alternative travel options. The airline has halted operations on the New Delhi-Tel Aviv route until May 31, an official confirmed to PTI, citing safety concerns linked to the ongoing conflict.

Air India Halts New Delhi-Tel Aviv Flights Till May 31 Amid Iran-Israel, US Tensions

The disruption comes at a time when the situation in the region remains volatile following military developments involving Israel, Iran and the United States (US). The uncertainty has impacted not just flight operations but also the movement of people across borders.

El Al, Israir, Arkia, Air Haifa Operating Limited Flights

With most international airlines suspending services to Tel Aviv, travel options have become limited. Currently, only Israeli carriers such as El Al, Israir Airlines, Arkia and Air Haifa are operating flights, and that too under strict restrictions and limited schedules.

Air India Flights Cancellations Leave Over 40,000 Indians Affected

The suspension has created significant challenges for more than 40,000 Indians currently residing in Israel. Many of them are looking to return to India for personal reasons, work commitments, or simply to move away from the conflict zone.

How Indians Can Exit Israel Amid Flight Suspension

With direct flights unavailable, Indian nationals are now relying on land routes to exit Israel. The most commonly used pathways include crossing into neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Egypt.

Travellers are using land border crossings to reach these countries, from where they can board international flights to India or other destinations. However, this route requires additional planning, documentation and coordination due to heightened security and evolving border conditions.

Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv Steps Up Support for Citizens

The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv has been actively assisting Indian nationals during this period. The mission has launched a 24×7 emergency helpline to respond to urgent queries and provide guidance on safe travel routes.

In addition, a large-scale registration drive has been initiated to keep track of Indian citizens in the region and facilitate assistance when required. Ambassador J P Singh and the embassy team have also conducted virtual meetings with Indian workers and students across Israel, addressing concerns and assuring continued support during the crisis.

The suspension of services comes shortly after the direct New Delhi-Tel Aviv route had resumed earlier this year. Flights were relaunched on January 1 with four weekly services operated using the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

However, operations began facing disruptions following the escalation in conflict after military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iran in late February. Subsequent retaliation further intensified the situation, extending instability across the Gulf region.

The conflict has also impacted critical global energy routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, adding to broader geopolitical and economic concerns.

Uncertainty Continues for Travel Plans

With no immediate clarity on when normal flight operations will resume, Indian nationals in Israel are being advised to stay updated through official embassy channels and carefully plan any travel using verified routes.