Ben Gurion union chief rejects blame as Netanyahu moves against his Likud membership
Although Ben Gurion Airport gradually returned to normal operations, the effects of the disruption could continue even after baggage conveyors and flights resume regular activity.
Israel Airports Authority workers union chief Pinchas Idan dismissed accusations of responsibility for the airport shutdown on Saturday evening. Netanyahu had filed a petition with the Likud's Supreme Court to terminate Idan's membership in the party, claiming the union chairman orchestrated a "political and illegal shutdown" to target Transportation Minister Miri Regev, the prime minister, and the Likud.
Idan asserted, "I never received anything from the Likud in my life," and pointed out that the airport manager, not he, closed Ben-Gurion Airport. He also anticipated the dispute might extend into next week, stating, "I don't promise anything."
The dispute arises from hours of airport chaos, with Ben-Gurion Airport eventually resuming normal operations but facing lingering effects. The Finance Ministry estimated the economic damage at NIS 25 million to NIS 30 million, encompassing lost time for passengers, airline costs, revenue losses for the Israel Airports Authority and airport operators, and damage to air cargo and supply chains.
Idan addressed claims that the disruptions were linked to his union position, stating, "My situation in the union is not complicated; temporary workers vote like veteran workers."
The incident prompted renewed scrutiny of airport staffing levels, especially under heavy summer pressure. Idan announced he would seek a court injunction to prevent baggage handlers from working 12-hour shifts, citing employee welfare concerns. He denied allegations of sabotaging Transportation Minister Miri Regev's flight, clarifying that he loaded the baggage onto the plane along with Maj.-Gen.
Ron Tal. Idan also noted the union's ongoing employee shortage, with around 400 to 500 employees missing across various divisions.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
