Security Teams at the Airport Detain Six Passengers Attempting to Leave Israel via Terminals 1 and 3. It was discovered that they are subject to draft orders preventing their departure from the country.
An unusual incident occurred at Ben Gurion Airport: six passengers classified as draft evaders attempted to leave Israel, despite having orders against them preventing their departure, according to the Airports Authority.
According to a statement from the Airports Authority spokesperson, the six were identified by Ben Gurion Airport’s security teams at both active terminals.
Two Caught at Terminal 1 and Four at Terminal 3
The attempts were not concentrated in one area: two passengers were caught at Terminal 1, which primarily operates low-cost international flights, and four others were located at Terminal 3.
The Airports Authority’s statement did not provide additional details about the passengers’ identities, their flight destinations, or the methods they used to attempt leaving the country.
After being caught, all six were handed over to the Population and Immigration Authority for further investigation and processing.
Investigation Reveals: Orders Prevented Their Departure from Israel
An investigation conducted on the passengers revealed that all six are subject to draft orders preventing their exit from the country’s borders. Consequently, their departure abroad was not permitted.
The Airports Authority stated: “Six passengers attempting to sneak abroad through Ben Gurion Airport were caught by the airport’s security teams, both at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.”
The statement also noted that two were caught at Terminal 1 and four others at Terminal 3.
Passport Check Is Not Only at the Airline Counter
A passenger holding a valid ticket and passport may still be detained before leaving the country if a restriction order appears in the authorities’ systems. In such cases, purchasing the ticket or completing the check-in process does not nullify the order.
This incident comes during an especially busy period at the airport, ahead of the Tishrei holidays. According to Airports Authority data, approximately three million passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport during the holiday season, with up to 100,000 passengers on the busiest days. More details can be found in the article on expected congestion at Ben Gurion and Rosh Hashanah flights.
What Should You Check Before Arriving at Ben Gurion?
For those who suspect they may have an order preventing them from leaving the country, it is advisable not to rely solely on having a valid passport or successfully issued flight ticket. It is recommended to verify the situation in advance with the relevant authorities before purchasing tickets, booking hotels, and arriving at the airport.
Other passengers are advised to ensure in advance that all travel documents are in order, check the entry requirements for the destination country, and arrive at Ben Gurion according to the times recommended by the airline. More information on exit and entry procedures can be found in the guide to border control and passports at Ben Gurion.
Source: Airports Authority Spokesperson
Photo: Flight Hunter
