Following the onset of the conflict between Hamas and Israel, thousands of people moved between the two regions, with about 7,000 heading from the Middle East to Russia and around 3,000 returning in the opposite direction. This information came from the Federal Air Transport Agency and was echoed by the Telegram channel Mash. The data highlighted a moment when Russia-to-Tel Aviv routes remained active, with flights operated by Azimut and Red Wings, while El Al also offered services in both directions. Tickets for round trips were available, signaling ongoing movement despite the escalating crisis. In 2022, it is estimated that around 70,000 people repatriated to Israel, including approximately 37,360 immigrants who originated from Russia, underscoring the long-standing links and migration patterns tied to this region.
Earlier reporting noted that a number of Russians were temporarily detained or hindered in Gaza, a consequence of the rapidly shifting security situation and the surrounding geopolitical uncertainties. This created a complex backdrop for travel and diplomatic efforts during the early stages of the conflict, as communities assessed personal safety, legal status, and access to essential services.
On 7 October, Hamas forces initiated a large-scale assault, launching thousands of rockets toward Israel and announcing the initiation of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Militants moved across Israeli territory, seizing vehicles, equipment, and multiple hostages, which prompted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare the nation at war. The Israeli defense posture shifted quickly, with the Israel Defense Forces launching a broad intervention and prioritizing the neutralization of Hamas targets.
The operation, described by the Israeli authorities as a comprehensive response, included airstrikes aimed at Hamas locations within the Gaza Strip. The National Security Council decided to implement restrictions on the movement of essential resources into Gaza, including water, food, goods, electricity, and fuel, in an effort to degrade the adversary’s capacity to sustain operations. By 13 October, the United Nations conveyed a challenging warning: up to 1.1 million Palestinians might be required to evacuate to southern Gaza within 24 hours in advance of a potential ground operation. This stark directive underscored the humanitarian stakes surrounding the military actions and the need for careful crisis management and civilian protection measures.
Previously, outlets such as socialbites.ca addressed common questions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering clarifications and context for readers seeking to understand the evolving situation. This coverage reflects ongoing attempts to communicate complex developments in a manner accessible to a broad audience, while also acknowledging the uncertainties that accompany rapid political and military events. [attribution: official briefings and independent reporting excerpts]