In a disturbing turn of events, an angry mob descended upon an airport in Russia’s Caucasus republic of Dagestan, searching for Israelis and Jews following unfounded rumors of an incoming flight from Israel. The violent incident unfolded amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, prompting Israel to request Russian intervention to protect its citizens.
Chanting “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest), dozens of protesters forcibly breached doors and barriers at the airport, with some even spilling onto the runway. Videos posted on social media, as well as Russia’s RT and Izvestia media outlets, documented the chaotic scene.
In response to the situation, Russia’s aviation agency Rosaviatsiya decided to close the airport to incoming and outgoing flights, deploying security forces to restore order. Local authorities assured the public that “the situation is under control,” as stated on Telegram.
While the exact number and identities of those injured remain unclear, the republic’s health ministry confirmed injuries resulting from the incident.
Late on Sunday, Rosaviatsiya announced the airport’s reopening date as November 6 after it was “freed” from the mob’s presence.
Photographs and videos from various local Telegram channels captured groups of men outside the airport, seemingly attempting to halt vehicles. One protester held a sign that read, “Child killers have no place in Dagestan,” reflecting the heightened tensions stemming from the ongoing Gaza conflict.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has claimed a significant toll on both sides. Hamas initiated an attack on the Gaza border on October 7, resulting in casualties on both sides. In response, Israel has relentlessly bombed the coastal strip, leading to a significant loss of life and the displacement of many Gaza residents.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office issued a statement, emphasizing the expectation that Russian authorities would protect all Israeli citizens and Jews. The statement also called for decisive action against the rioters and any incitement to violence targeting Jews and Israelis.
Akhmed Dudayev, the minister of information in neighboring Chechnya, warned against “provocations” and urged calm amid rising tensions in the Caucasus. The Dagestan government joined in, appealing to those involved to cease their “illegal acts” while expressing understanding of their anger over the ongoing conflict in Palestine.
Sergei Melikov, the governor of Dagestan, deemed the airport incident outrageous and pledged an appropriate assessment by law enforcement. He noted that while Dagestanis sympathize with the suffering in Palestine, the actions at the airport were unacceptable.
These events underscore the complex and delicate situation in the region, marked by historical tensions between Muslim-majority areas like Dagestan and the central Russian authorities. The incident at the airport serves as a stark reminder of the need for diplomacy and peaceful resolution in times of international conflict.
Sources By Agencies
