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In a dramatic turn of events, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was forced to evacuate his plane and lie on the ground due to a rocket attack aimed at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv. The incident occurred on October 17, 2023, as Scholz was preparing to depart for Cairo following his solidarity visit to Israel. The Chancellor, his staff, and accompanying journalists were compelled to disembark from the plane and take cover by lying down on the runway. The sudden alarm led to a swift evacuation, with everyone on board instructed to promptly leave the plane.
#Raketenalarm in Tel Aviv. Die Regierungsmaschine wird umgehend evakuiert. @Bundeskanzler wird in einen Schutzraum gebracht. Wir legen uns vor dem Flugzeug auf den Boden. @robinalexander_ @frautoroxel pic.twitter.com/OTWV55KUoA
— Sara Sievert (@sara__si) October 17, 2023
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The rocket attack came amidst escalating tensions in the region. Scholz's visit to Israel was intended to express solidarity with the country following a brutal terror attack by Hamas that claimed over 1,400 Israeli lives. He was also there to de-escalate tensions and improve humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians in Gaza.
During his visit, Scholz had issued a warning to Iran and Hezbollah not to intervene in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. He stressed that Israel's security was an integral part of German state policy and that the country had the right to defend itself against Hamas. However, he also cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that his military must respect international humanitarian law when retaliating against Hamas.
The rocket attack at Ben Gurion airport underscores the volatile situation in the region. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflicts. Despite the alarming incident, Scholz and those flying with him were able to board the plane a few minutes later, following an additional security check. This incident has drawn international attention and underscores the urgent need for peaceful resolution and de-escalation in the region. As leaders navigate these complex situations, the safety of civilians and respect for international law must remain paramount.
