Missile Strike Near Tel Aviv Forces Air India Flight Diversion to Abu Dhabi

New Delhi, May 4 — An Air India flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv was diverted to Abu Dhabi on Sunday after a missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck near Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, triggering panic and prompting multiple airlines to halt operations to the country.

Flight AI139, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was about an hour away from Tel Aviv when the missile hit. In response to the escalating security threat, the aircraft was redirected and landed safely at Abu Dhabi. The flight is scheduled to return to Delhi, while Air India has immediately suspended all services to and from Tel Aviv until May 6 to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

“Our operations to and from Tel Aviv will remain suspended with immediate effect till 6 May 2025, to ensure the safety of our customers and staff,” said an Air India spokesperson. “Our staff on the ground is assisting customers and helping them with alternative arrangements.” The airline also confirmed that it is offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling and providing full refunds for passengers opting to cancel their bookings.

The missile fired by the Houthi rebels landed close to Ben Gurion Airport, sending smoke into the air and alarming passengers nearby. Eight individuals were hospitalized following the strike, including a man who suffered mild to moderate injuries, according to Israel’s ambulance service.

The missile strike has triggered a wave of international concern. In addition to Air India, several global carriers—including Lufthansa Group, Air France, British Airways, and Delta Air Lines—have also suspended flights to Tel Aviv due to the deteriorating security situation.

Despite the disruption, Israeli authorities resumed operations at Ben Gurion Airport within 30 minutes of the incident. However, the attack has raised serious concerns about the safety of air travel in the region amidst heightened tensions.

In a stern response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed retaliation against the Houthis. “We attacked in the past, we will attack in the future… There will be more blows,” he warned, indicating a likely escalation in military action against the Iran-backed rebel group responsible for the strike.

The missile attack near Tel Aviv marks another volatile flashpoint in the ongoing conflict, with direct implications for global air traffic and regional stability.