(JTA) — Protesters of Israel’s Gaza blockade delayed an Israel-bound flight from Athens International Airport for about two hours.
Members of a Communist-backed labor union told the Associated Press that they blocked five El Al check-in counters during Wednesday’s protest, which they said was also because of the "oppressive policies" of Israel.
“This was an action taken in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their effort to establish a Palestinian state," union spokesman Giorgos Pontikos told AP.
The protest occurred as a Libyan aid ship carrying aid to Gaza sailed to an Egyptian port to avoid the blockade.
El Al released a statement saying that it "considers flight safety and the safety of its passengers as its foremost values and will not compromise those in any way."
The airline stressed that at no point were the passengers in any danger.
The flight departed for Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv at 12:30 p.m. with 99 passengers on board.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
