In a move intended to instill fear in travelers and alert the US Federal Aviation Authority and its European equivalent, Hamas on Wednesday night warned travelers to distance themselves from Ben-Gurion International Airport.

A Hamas spokesman openly blamed Israel for the collapse of the ceasefire, warning Israelis “not to enter public places” as Hamas vows to bring pain and destruction “the likes of which have never been seen in Israel in the past”.

Seeking to drive the point home, Hamas also recalled its negotiators from Cairo, announcing they would not return to resume talks with Egypt in the future. Abu Obadiah warned airlines not to continue traveling to and from Ben-Gurion beginning 06:00 on Thursday morning 25 Menachem Av. He also warned residents of Gaza border communities not to return home.

Airport officials report they have increased the number of visible security agents to give travelers an added feeling of security.

According to a report appearing in el-Hayat, Qatar is responsible for the collapse of the ceasefire. A senior Fatah official told the newspaper that Hamas told Egypt they wish to have Qatar play a major role in reaching agreement with Israel and this would compel inviting Qatar’s chief of intelligence to the Cairo forum. Egypt explained this would only be possible if Qatar apologizes for its anti-Egypt policy that began with the ousting of President Muhmad Morsi.

It was also reported that Qatar threatened Hamas leader Khalid Meshal with expulsion if he signed a deal with Egypt that did not include major involvement by Qatar. This is part of the ongoing power struggle between Qatar and Egypt and highlights Egypt’s disdain for Qatar and its major ally, Hamas.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)