Amid the intensifying conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, Air India has extended its suspension of regular flights to and from Tel Aviv, Israel's economic center, until at least October 18. This decision was announced by the private Indian carrier on October 14.

Air India, the former national carrier of India, typically operates five weekly flights to Tel Aviv, with one round trip flight each on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

An airline official stated that Air India would continue to conduct special chartered flights to repatriate stranded Indian citizens in the region.

Earlier this week, India launched "Operation Ajay" to facilitate the return of Indian nationals from Israel during the ongoing conflict. As part of this mission, Air India has already operated two flights.

Air India initially suspended its services to and from Tel Aviv on October 7, shortly after Hamas fighters conducted raids in southern Israel. The carrier had initially indicated that the flight suspension would be in effect until October 14.

It's worth noting that the Israel-Hamas conflict has resulted in a significant number of casualties, surpassing 3,700 individuals. Reportedly, over 1,200 Israelis, including both military personnel and civilians, have lost their lives. On the Palestinian side, authorities have reported over 1,500 fatalities, with a majority of those being civilians in Gaza.

In response to the deadliest attack by Hamas in recent decades, Israel has carried out extensive airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, they have cut off essential services, including water, electricity, and food supplies, to the region, which was home to an estimated 2.3 million people prior to the outbreak of hostilities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India's solidarity with Israel following the eruption of violence. In a statement shared on a social media platform, he conveyed, "Deeply shocked by the news of terrorist attacks in Israel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families. We stand in solidarity with Israel at this difficult hour."

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