Ben Gurion Airport Under Attack as Hezbollah Targets Israeli Military Base
On November 6, 2024, Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv was reported to be under bombardment following an announcement from Hezbollah that it had targeted a military base near the airport. The Israeli Home Front Command confirmed that missile sirens were activated in greater Tel Aviv and that multiple explosions were heard in the area. Despite the missile attacks, air traffic at the airport was reportedly unaffected, according to the Israeli Airports Authority.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the missile strikes, stating that it had launched a "barrage of qualitative missiles" at the Tserfin military base located near the airport. Israeli media showed footage of explosions and smoke rising from the area. In addition to the attacks on the airport, Hezbollah also targeted a house in the settlement of Metula, claiming to have caused casualties among Israeli forces.
In a related development, the Israeli military warned residents of southern Beirut to evacuate, citing imminent military actions against Hezbollah facilities in the area. This warning was accompanied by maps indicating specific locations of interest. The Israeli army subsequently conducted air raids on the outskirts of Baalbek and Hermel in eastern Lebanon, resulting in casualties. Reports indicated that at least seven people were killed in an Israeli raid on the town of Ain, with ongoing search efforts for survivors from a previously bombed residential building.
Rising Tensions and Impact on Air Travel
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah continues to escalate, with significant implications for civilian safety and air travel. Passenger numbers at Ben Gurion International Airport have plummeted by 43% in the first nine months of 2024, reflecting the broader impact of the conflict that has persisted since October 7, 2023. Airlines have been forced to withdraw or reduce flights due to safety concerns stemming from the ongoing hostilities.
As the situation unfolds, both sides remain on high alert, with the potential for further military engagements. The Israeli military has not disclosed the specific targets of its recent airstrikes, leaving many uncertainties regarding the ongoing conflict and its repercussions for the civilian population in both Israel and Lebanon.
