Countering Russia’s claims, the US has characterized as ‘illogical’ the allegations that unrest at a Dagestan airport, targeted against Israel, was orchestrated by Ukraine and the West. The disorder unfolded on Sunday ahead of an incoming flight from Tel Aviv, Israel’s cultural and economic hub. The airport was overrun by riotous gathering that waved the Palestinian flag and voiced antisemitic chants. The incident, many contend, was ignited by the inflamed sentiments over the Gaza conflict.
On Monday, Russian President Putin spoke at a televised assembly, branding the turmoil as a deliberate effort to instigate anarchy within Russia. Following the debacles, over 60 arrests have been effected as per local administrative reports. The Russian leader suggested, “It’s becoming increasingly clear who reaps the benefits from the deadly disorder being sowed across the world – the ruling elite of the US and their satellite allies, undeniably, are the primary benefactors of worldwide instability.”
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, reflected that it is simple for antagonists to exploit sentiments in light of the horrific images telecasted from the Gaza Strip, showing civilians, including children and the elderly, suffering. The governor of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov discarded the unrest as instigation initiated by ‘traitors’ from Ukraine, utilizing a Telegram channel – Morning Dagestan.
Morning Dagestan, a channel opposing Russian control and affiliated to former Russian lawmaker Ilya Ponomarev, posted details of the incoming Tel Aviv flight asking followers to greet these ‘unexpected visitors’. However, both the channel and Ponomarev have since disconnected any links with each other and Ukraine.
Repercussions of the airport unrest were noticeable overseas. Ukrainian premier Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his denouncement while, on being questioned, US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby referred to Russia’s claims as ’customary Russian rhetoric.’ Kirby stated, “It’s a classic tale, when your nation is in turmoil, shift blame onto others. The West’s involvement in this incident is nil. It’s a manifestation of hate, bigotry, and intimidation.”
Kirby also drew parallels between the airport incident and the pogroms of yesteryears. Videos spread on social media reflected the wide-scale disruption, with crowd breaking open doors and spilling onto the runway, halting cars in search of Israeli passports.
Russia’s Health Ministry reported that the upheaval resulted in injuries to 20 individuals, with two in a serious condition. In response, Melikov empathized with the victims, but branded the airport’s happenings as ‘scandalous’. The Israeli Prime Minister Office’s communication indicated its serious concern about the attempts to harm Israeli citizens and Jews elsewhere.
Laying emphasis on the expectations from Russian legal machinery, the statement read, “Israel expects robust actions against the rioters, ensuring the safety of all Israeli citizens and Jews wherever they are situated.”
