An airport in the Dagestan region of Russia was briefly closed by the Russian police after a crowd of people stormed the grounds in search of a plane carrying passengers from Tel Aviv. The incident resulted in at least 20 injuries, including nine police officers, and two individuals being hospitalized in critical condition. Approximately 60 people were arrested, and local officials have promised to launch a criminal investigation to hold the rioters accountable. Flights from Tel Aviv will be temporarily redirected to other cities, although the airport has since reopened fully. Social media videos showed crowds surrounding planes on the tarmac, some carrying Palestinian flags and shouting anti-Semitic remarks. The riot occurred amidst escalating conflict in Gaza, prompting pro-Palestinian protests worldwide. Russian leaders have called for a mediated end to the conflict, while criticizing both sides. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office expects Russian law enforcement to protect Israeli citizens and Jews. Dagestan, which has a small Jewish population, expressed support for Palestinians while condemning the airport incident. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy condemned the riots as an illustration of Russia’s aggressive nationalism.
NPR Reports Multiple Arrests of Pro-Palestine Demonstrators
