Delta Air Lines has announced the suspension of all flights from New York City’s John F. Kennedy Airport to Israel until at least April 2025, citing uncertainties due to the region’s volatile situation. This decision affects one of the airline’s key international routes and comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East between Israel, Iran and Iranian proxies.
“Delta is continuously monitoring the evolving security environment and assessing our operations based on security guidance and intelligence reports and will communicate any updates as needed,” the Altanta-based carrier announced.
Delta’s announcement came as Israeli news outlet Channel 14 reported that Israel is preparing for a significant retaliatory strike against Iran. According to the report, the strike is expected to be substantial rather than moderate, potentially provoking a strong response from Iran. Channel 14 also warned that such an escalation could draw in the United States.
One source, who spoke to CNN on Wednesday morning, confirmed that Israel’s military strike against Iran is now ready:
American officials expect Israel will retaliate against this month’s Iranian attack before November 5, sources tell CNN — a timeline that would thrust the growing volatility in the Middle East squarely into public view within days of the US presidential election.
The timeline and parameters of Israel’s retaliation against Iran have been subject to intense debate inside Israel’s government and are not directly related to the timing of the US election, the sources said.
Still, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — described by senior US administration officials as deeply attuned to American politics — appears highly sensitive to any potential political ramifications of Israel’s actions in the US, they said.
The growing conflict in the Middle East has emerged as persistent issue in the American election. President Joe Biden, and by extension Vice President Kamala Harris, have faced pressure from progressives for their handling of the situation. Meanwhile, Republicans — including former President Donald Trump — have accused the administration of bungling the crisis and sending the world into chaos.
Delta’s decision reflects growing apprehension about safety and stability in the area, which could see further disruptions in travel and logistics in the event of a wider war.
In its statement, the airline emphasized that it will continue to monitor the situation closely.
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Really Delta, gonna lose business some