Israel has called upon Russia to protect “all of its citizens and all Jews” following a large mob’s assault on a Dagestan airport, with some members shouting anti-Semitic slogans. Video footage circulated on social media depicted a frenzied crowd dashing through the airport in Makhachkala, reportedly targeting individuals arriving from Tel Aviv.
Certain members of the crowd breached the runway and encircled aircraft parked there. Rosaviatsia, Russia’s aviation agency, confirmed that security forces ultimately regained control of the situation. Consequently, the airport was shut down and is expected to remain closed until Tuesday, as confirmed by Rosaviatsia.
According to local interior ministry sources, around sixty alleged participants in the mob have been apprehended. Videos showcased hundreds of individuals storming the airport terminal, some waving Palestinian flags. Reports also emerged of demonstrators stopping vehicles outside Makhachkala’s airport, demanding to inspect documents in a chaotic quest for Israeli passports.
The health ministry of the republic reported that twenty individuals, including several police officers, sustained injuries, with some in critical condition. Dagestan’s government initiated a criminal case for the disorder.
In response to the incident, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office insisted that Russia take decisive action against the incitement of violence targeting Jews and Israelis. The United States similarly condemned the anti-Semitic protests, with the White House National Security Council spokesperson emphasizing solidarity with the global Jewish community and unequivocally denouncing anti-Semitism.
Governor Sergei Melikov of Dagestan condemned the airport invasion in a Telegram post, condemning the mistreatment of strangers and attacks on women with children. He considered the mob’s actions a betrayal of Dagestani patriots, including those serving in the Russian armed forces in Ukraine.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry declared that the Israeli ambassador in Moscow was collaborating with Russian authorities. The ministry underscored that Israel views attempts to harm Israeli citizens and Jews with great concern, expecting Russian law enforcement to ensure the safety of all Israeli citizens and Jews and take robust measures against the rioters and the unfettered incitement targeting Jews and Israelis.
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