Tel Aviv, February 28 (NationPress) Amid a significant military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against various targets in Iran, numerous flights were abruptly cancelled, leaving passengers stranded at Ben Gurion Airport. Many shared their experiences and plans to ensure their safety during this chaotic period. IANS spoke with several travelers at the airport following this unexpected disruption.

One traveler recounted, “We were instructed to evacuate after an emergency alert sounded. My family and I moved downstairs but returned shortly after. Now, we have been told to evacuate again and return home. All flights have been cancelled, and I have contacted my cousin. We will stay with him until it’s safe to return.”

Another traveler, Siri, expressed distress, stating, “We were already on board our flight when we learned of the potential attack. Shortly after, all flights were halted. I feel overwhelmed and just want to go home to protect myself.”

In the meantime, the coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran on Saturday have sharply escalated tensions in the Middle East. This situation raises alarms about a potential escalation that could lead to significant geopolitical and economic ramifications.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Saturday that Israel and the United States had executed a joint military operation, known as 'Operation Lion's Roar', targeting Iran, which he described as essential to neutralize what he termed an “existential threat” from the Iranian regime.

In a video address to the nation, Netanyahu stated that the operation was initiated to mitigate the threat posed by Tehran.

“My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, just an hour ago, Israel and the United States commenced an operation to eliminate the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran,” he proclaimed.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that military strikes had been conducted and declared an immediate state of emergency across the nation in light of the rapidly changing security landscape.

This military action follows a month-long buildup of US military forces in the area, which was prompted by President Trump’s pledge to support Iranian protesters challenging their regime at the start of January.

Additionally, Air India's flight from Delhi to Tel Aviv had to return to the national capital after Israel initiated what it characterized as 'preventive' strikes on Iran, leading to airspace closures in various parts of the Middle East and disrupting several international flights.