Transportation Ministry weighs limiting election flights over anti-Netanyahu voting fears - report

Israeli transportation officials are reportedly considering drastic measures to limit flights, potentially preventing citizens abroad from returning to vote in the upcoming Knesset elections scheduled for October 27. The unofficial discussions within the ministry, led by Minister Miri Regev, are reportedly fueled by concerns that a significant number of returning voters might cast their ballots against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israel requires citizens to vote in person, with few exceptions. Organizations like AID Coalition's Fly & Vote initiative are working to increase flight availability in the days leading up to the election to facilitate voting. However, the potential flight limitations could undermine these efforts and disenfranchise voters abroad.

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This delay has immediate and serious operational consequences.

Minister Regev is a member of Netanyahu's Likud Party, adding a political dimension to the ministry's alleged considerations. The report by Haaretz, citing a source with knowledge of the matter, highlights a potential attempt to influence election outcomes through travel restrictions.

In a separate but related issue affecting air travel, up to 50,000 flight tickets are at risk of cancellation in July. This is due to a US decision to halt the evacuation of its refueling aircraft stationed at Ben-Gurion Airport. The Israel Airports Authority has warned of serious operational consequences from this delay, with Director General Sharon Kedmi expressing significant concern.

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Citizens cannot be harmed; the Defense Ministry must find solutions.