January 25, 2026
Shmuel Zakai, head of the Israeli Civil Aviation Authority, warned of what he described as the “most security sensitive” period for international flights, in a possible sign of a potential security escalation in the region.
In a message he sent on Sunday evening to foreign airlines flying to Ben Gurion Airport, Zakai explained that the upcoming weekend, specifically “January 31” and “February 1,” may represent the beginning of a period of increased security sensitivity, according to an Israeli news site.
He stated that if Israeli airspace is closed, priority will be given to foreign flights departing from Israel, in a measure aimed at facilitating the departure of international airlines and their passengers.
On the other hand, Zakai explained that the current assessments issued by the Civil Aviation Authority and the instructions of the Home Front Command indicate continued calm during the next few days, while at the same time warning of the possibility of escalation.
He also pointed out that there is a small possibility of resuming talks between the United States and Iran, believing that this may help reduce tension in the region.
Zakai stressed that if it is not possible to ensure a sufficient level of safety, the airspace will be closed without hesitation, as happened in June 2025, as well as in April and October 2024.
He concluded his speech by emphasizing that the defense systems are still in a state of full deployment and on maximum readiness, and that the coordination mechanisms between the concerned parties are stable and working intensively.
