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Charedi Leaders Threaten Israir Boycott Over Shabbat Flights

The pressure tests whether economic clout can force changes to Saturday operations.

Overview

  • N12 reported that senior ultra-Orthodox leaders threatened a broad consumer boycott unless Israir stops Saturday flights.
  • Israir CEO Uri Sirkis was summoned to meet community leaders in Jerusalem to discuss the airline’s policy.
  • Of Israel’s four carriers, El Al alone does not fly on Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, so an Israir change would leave Arkia as the main Saturday option for most routes.
  • Police launched a probe after a Ramat Gan cafe that opens on Saturdays was set on fire, with the owner having reported prior threats and no suspects named.
  • The stakes extend beyond flights because owner Rami Levy also runs a major supermarket chain that could face a linked boycott.