ISRAEL SAYS ITS ‘OPEN FOR TOURISM’ & ‘COMPLETELY SAFE’

NEW DELHI: Israel on Thursday said it is “now open for tourism.” For the past few months, conflict in the region with Israel at the centre of the same, had meant the country was virtually a no go for tourists. Flights to Tel Aviv were suspended and airlines are now resuming them. Air India will resume its five times weekly nonstops between Delhi and Tel Aviv flight from May 16.

“After the events of October 7 (2023) in the Gaza area, we now see that tourism in Israel is getting back to normal. Ben Gurion airport is fully operational and most of the cities, such as Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Dead Sea & Galilee are fully active day and night with all its attractions. In recent weeks, we have been receiving a lively movement of thousands of tourists who come to express solidarity, pray, visit, and enjoy the attractions of the land of milk and honey, all of which encourage and strengthen the Israeli public, who seek to return to tour and travel,” Pini Shani, Isarel Tourism’s deputy DG & head of marketing administration, said.

“We want to reassure you that for us, the safety of tourists is a top priority. Israel is careful about the security of tourists and citizens alike. All tourist areas are completely safe. Jerusalem, Tiberias and the Galilee, the Negev, the Dead Sea, Eilat are operating as usual. We hope you can come and join us in demonstrating that the tourism industry is a real bridge between people and serves as a road to peace,” Shani added.

Amruta Bangera, Israel Tourism’s marketing director (India), said: “Israel warmly welcomes travellers back to its vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As we emerge from the challenges of the recent crisis, we invite visitors to experience the beauty, history, and hospitality our country has to offer. Come explore Israel and create unforgettable memories with us.”

Air India had first suspended Tel Aviv flights after the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. It then resumed the same on March 3. And then the route was again suspended on April 14 following the Iran-Israel conflict.