Three Israeli Men Arrested After Alleged Assault on Police and Disruption of Lufthansa Flight at Ben Gurion Airport

Three Passengers Removed Before Takeoff

Three men in their 20s from central Israel were arrested Friday aboard a Lufthansa flight at Ben Gurion Airport shortly before its scheduled departure to Frankfurt after allegedly causing a serious disturbance onboard.

According to Israeli police, the passengers refused repeated instructions from the flight crew and created a situation that was considered a safety risk for both passengers and crew members.

Flight Delayed After Crew Raised the Alarm

Police said the flight crew contacted officers stationed at Ben Gurion Airport while making final preparations for departure. According to investigators, Lufthansa informed authorities that the aircraft would not depart while the three men remained onboard because of the potential danger they posed.

Airport police boarded the aircraft and instructed the men to leave the plane. Police say the suspects refused, leading officers to remove them and place them under arrest.

Officers Allegedly Assaulted During Arrest

Authorities allege that the suspects violently resisted arrest, assaulting officers as they were taken into custody. Police said officers were forced to use reasonable force to complete the arrests.

• Four police officers were reportedly injured.
• Two volunteer officers also sustained injuries.
• Several officers required medical treatment.
• Police said some officers were bitten during the confrontation.

Investigation Continues

According to police, one of the suspects allegedly told a female officer during the arrest, "I wish another October 7th happens to you police officers."

The three suspects remain under investigation. Police are expected to ask a court to extend their detention as investigators continue examining the incident.