Turkish Airlines cancels flights to Tel Aviv due to political crisis

By Tuba Sahin

ANKARA (AA) - Türkiye's national flag carrier Turkish Airlines on Monday canceled its flights between Istanbul and Tel Aviv citing the political crisis in Israel.

"Some of our flights on Monday have been canceled due to political turmoil in Tel Aviv," Turkish Airlines said.

Israel's top trade union announced a nationwide strike to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plans for judicial overhaul, and his decision to sack the country’s defense minister.

All takeoffs and departures from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv were halted because of the strike.

Tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets on Sunday night after Netanyahu sacked Defense Minister Yoav Gallant after the latter urged him to pause the government's judicial overhaul plan.

Netanyahu, who is on trial for corruption, claims that his plan would enhance democracy and restore the balance between the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government.