Air Canada suspends Tel Aviv flights after attack on Israel

As the deadly war against Hamas escalates, some Canadians say they are stuck in Israel as airlines have cancelled flights out of the country and reaching the Canadian Embassy on a holiday weekend proved difficult.

The more than 1,400 registered Canadians in Israel and 492 in the Palestinian territories have been advised by government officials to limit their movements and shelter in place until it is safe for them to leave, urging them to contact Global Affairs Emergency Assistance for aid.

Global Affairs Canada has additionally advised that Canadians avoid all travel to Gaza.

Due to the situation in Israel, we have put in place a goodwill policy to enable passengers flying to/from Tel Aviv to make changes to their travel, including options for a refund.

More: https://t.co/5mO2DocbIa pic.twitter.com/nXy2vGhcFe

— Air Canada (@AirCanada) October 7, 2023

Air Canada has temporarily suspended all flights to Tel Aviv and said in a statement Sunday that operations will resume “as soon as the situation stabilizes.”

The airline says those affected by the suspension can now make changes to their travel itineraries, including refund options. Air Canada typically operates daily flights from Toronto and three times a week from Montreal to Tel Aviv.

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Meanwhile, Global Affairs Canada said in a statement Saturday afternoon that it was aware of reports of one Canadian who has died in the conflict and two others who are missing.

The statement did not provide any information on the identities of those who have reportedly died or who were missing.

Canada unequivocally condemns the multi-front terror attack against Israeli citizens by Hamas. Canada firmly stands with Israel and its right to defend itself against terror under international law. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those affected by these attacks.

— Foreign Policy CAN (@CanadaFP) October 7, 2023

“Canadian government officials in Israel are in contact with local authorities to confirm and gather additional information,” the statement said.

The unprecedented attack has been called the deadliest on Israel in years, with hundreds killed and thousands more injured in both Israel and Palestine.

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War was formally declared by the Israeli government on Sunday, with officials approving the use of “significant military steps” to retaliate against Hamas as the military continued to fight in southern towns and intensified its continuous attack of the Gaza Strip.

Canada unequivocally condemns Hamas’ barbaric, brutal terror attacks – and reaffirms its support for Israel’s right to defend itself. We also call for the immediate release of those being held hostage, and we demand that they be treated in accordance with international law.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 8, 2023

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, where he “unequivocally condemned” Hamas’ attacks and said he is “gravely concerned” about the atrocities that have unfolded.

Trudeau reaffirmed that Canada stands with Israel and fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself and the leaders agreed to remain in close contact as the situation develops.

In a statement released Sunday, the Prime Minister called for the release of hostages being held amid the violence and demanded that they be treated in accordance with international law.

This report was created with files from The Canadian Press. 

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