Major American airlines have canceled or postponed flights to Israel after fighting erupted on Saturday following a surprise Hamas attack on the country.
In response, Israel has declared war on Hamas, laid a siege on Gaza, and sealed off the area, preventing supplies in and out of the territory.
More than 900 Israelis have died, the Associated Press has reported, citing the Israeli military. At least 680 Palestinians have been killed, the outlet said.
On Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement that at least 11 Americans had been killed in the attack.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines canceled flights to Tel Aviv scheduled from October 7 till the end of the month. The company said in a statement that passengers can rebook their travel with the airline no later than November 30. Earlier this year, the airline resumed trips for the route offering three flights a week from its Atlanta base to Tel Aviv, adding to its Boston and New York, according to travel site One Mile at a Time.
"If travel is not able to be rescheduled within these guidelines, customers may cancel their reservation and apply any unused value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket for a period of one year from the original ticket issuance," Delta said.
American Airlines
American Airlines also canceled its flights to the country until October 21, according to an advisory from the company. The Allied Pilots Association, which represents the airline's pilots, had directed its pilots to "cease flight operations to Israel until we can be reasonably assured of the region's safety and security."
The airline said flight changes can be booked by October 21 and "travel must be completed within 1 year of original ticket date; difference in fare may apply."
United Airlines
United Airlines also postponed its flights to Tel Aviv between October 7 to October 21. "Tickets must be in the same cabin and between the same cities as originally booked. If you cancel or don't take your trip, you can get a full refund," the airline said.
The flight stoppages came after U.S. authorities issued travel advisories warning travelers to take precautions for trips to Israel. The Federal Aviation Administration had warned airlines to be careful when flying over Israeli airspace, Reuters reported on Saturday.
Travel Advisory to Israel
The State Department suggested that U.S. citizens continue to exercise care in Israel.
"The situation in Israel remains dynamic; mortar and rocket fire may take place without warning. Individuals should follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials," the State Department said in a statement.
The Department also encouraged travelers to check with their airlines about their status of travel.
"While Ben Gurion International Airport remains open, we are aware that several major airlines have announced that they have suspended flights," the State Department said. "Please check with the airlines on the availability of flights and flight status. U.S. citizens in Gaza who wish to leave and can do so safely are advised to check the status of the Rafah Crossing into Egypt."
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Omar Mohammed is a Newsweek reporter based in the Greater Boston area. His focus is reporting on the Economy and ... Read more
