By KTA News Team
Due to heightened regional tensions following Israeli military operations in Iran, the Israeli Civil Aviation Authority has ordered the closure of Israeli airspace and Ben Gurion Airport until further notice.
Key Developments:
- Ben Gurion Airport is officially closed, with all takeoffs and landings suspended – at this stage until Monday, June 16.
- Israeli carriers El Al and Israir have cancelled all flights and relocated aircraft abroad for safety.
- El Al has suspended new bookings until June 30, 2025.
- Major international airlines—including Emirates, Lufthansa, United, Delta, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Air France-KLM, Air India, and others—have diverted or canceled flights to and from Israel.
Travelers are strongly advised not to come to the airport and to consult their airlines for rebooking, refunds, and updated travel advisories.
Special Situation on the Home Front
Early this morning (June 13 2025), a Special Situation on the Home Front was declared by the Israeli Minister of Defence. This state of emergency grants authorities enhanced powers, including restrictions on government office operations, flight arrangements, and related services.
As part of the initial measures, the airport has been completely shut down, at this stage until Monday, June 16. Several Israeli consulates and embassies worldwide—including those in Berlin and Copenhagen—have closed due to security concerns. Consequently, no work visas or other non-urgent consular services are currently being provided at those consulates.
We also expect that Ministry of Interior offices in Israel will remain closed throughout the coming week to prevent gatherings, meaning that immigration services, including work visa processing, will be suspended during this period.
KTA expects that the shutdown, combined with consular and Ministry closures, will result in significant visa processing delays and a backlog once operations resume. Additionally, flights to Israel will be difficult as soon as the airport reopens, given the large number of Israelis abroad seeking to return.
KTA is currently managing the execution of evacuation plans for several major clients in Israel, primarily via Jordan and Egypt. Additionally, we provide urgent support and advisory services to companies requiring expedited entry of foreign expatriates, such as those involved in the continuous operation of electrical production sites. We can certainly do the same for Fragomen clients if needed.
KTA continues to monitor the situation closely. For assistance with immigration, travel, or corporate mobility issues affected by these developments, evacuation of expats, please contact our team directly.
Stay safe,
Kan-Tor & Acco
