Government Officials’ Increased Air Travel Amidst Ongoing Conflict

In the past year and a half, traveling abroad has become a more complex endeavor than in previous times, hindered by factors such as flight cancellations from foreign airlines, ongoing military orders, anti-Israeli sentiments in certain destinations, and a general lack of enthusiasm for vacations. However, for public officials, these considerations appear to be less significant when it comes to official business travel.

Since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, 25 members of the Israeli government have undertaken over 130 international flights. Yossi Fox, the government secretary responsible for publishing monthly details of the ministers’ trips, noted that while he specified the purpose of some flights, others were classified simply as “in matters of the ministry.” The durations of these flights varied, with some being as short as start or two days, while others extended over a week or more.

Top Destinations for Official Travel

The primary destination for these government officials was the United States, which accounted for 26 of the total flights. Following closely behind were France with 16 flights and Hungary with 11.

The minister who traveled the most since the onset of the war is the Minister of Economy, Nir Barkat, who has taken 15 flights totaling 75 days abroad. Other notable travelers include:

• Haim Katz, Minister of Tourism: 11 flights, 52 days abroad.
• Amichai Shikli, Minister of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Anti-Semitism: 13 flights, 48 days abroad.
• Miri Regev, Minister of Transportation: 8 flights, 41 days abroad.

Details of Travel by Month

October 2023

During the onset of the conflict, only two flights were undertaken by ministers: Minister Barkat traveled to Japan for five days “in matters of his ministry,” while then-Foreign Minister Eli Cohen flew to New York to participate in a UN Security Council meeting for two days.

Subsequent Months

In November, Cohen flew to Belgium for start day, Switzerland for two days, and Northern Macedonia for two days, while Barkat undertook a six-day trip to the U.S. “in matters of his ministry.” Health Minister Uriel Busso and Shikli also made trips to Switzerland, France, and the UK.

In December, Cohen traveled to Argentina for five days and Cyprus for start day. Other ministers visited countries like Romania, Germany, and Hungary, primarily for official purposes.

Throughout January and February 2024, several other ministers continued their international engagements, attending various conferences and meetings across Europe.

Busy Season

From June to October, numerous ministers traveled for official duties:

• June: Katz spent five days in the U.S. and two in Hungary.
• July: Katz was in the U.S. for six days, while Shikli went for nine days to Argentina.
• August to October: Continued travel to the U.S., Europe, and other destinations saw ministers attending climate conferences and bilateral meetings.

Conclusion

The high frequency of official travel by Israeli ministers during a time of conflict underscores a commitment to international engagement despite broader logistical challenges and political sentiments. As these flights increase, the focus on international diplomacy and governmental responsibilities continues to take precedence for these officials