Congressman Accuses Airlines of Boycotting Israel

Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) has accused American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines of effectively boycotting Israel due to their prolonged suspension of flights following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. In a letter to the airline CEOs, Torres stated that the indefinite flight suspensions have created a monopoly for El Al, the only airline still offering direct flights, leading to increased prices and reduced availability for travelers. He expressed concern that these actions are not based on FAA guidance but rather arbitrary decisions by the airlines, which he believes give the impression of discrimination against Israel. Torres argues that airlines should be prohibited from such actions and that the current situation resembles the tactics of the BDS movement. The airlines have faced criticism for their lack of competition in the market, which Torres claims has harmed consumers and travel access to Israel. He highlighted that other airlines, including those from the UAE, continue to operate flights to Israel safely.