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Israeli airlines face disruption to planned rescue operations for stranded citizens in Dubai after El Al’s landing permit was revoked by UAE authorities. El Al cancelled its Friday repatriation flights, stating that official permission must be granted before it can resume operations.

However, other Israeli carriers Arkia and Israir have indicated they have obtained the necessary approvals to conduct rescue flights to the UAE, suggesting the suspension may be temporary or selective. El Al stated it would implement planned flights immediately once landing permissions are officially restored.

The incident occurs during a sensitive period in Israel-UAE relations, following a dramatic week that included Prime Minister Netanyahu’s visit to the Emirates and an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. The flight permission revocations highlight the fragility of aviation agreements and regional cooperation despite the normalisation agreements between Israel and Gulf states.

The situation underscores both the possibilities and limitations of Israel’s diplomatic relationships in the Middle East, with practical aviation operations becoming a flashpoint for political tensions.

Sources: Jerusalem Post, Times of Israel, Ynet