In the aftermath of a Houthi missile landing dangerously close to the runways of Ben Gurion Airport, thousands of Yidden were left stranded across the globe — some en route to Eretz Yisroel, others stuck abroad with their return flights suddenly canceled. As fear and confusion rippled through the Jewish world, a different scene was unfolding on the Israeli stock exchange. With most foreign airlines immediately halting operations to and from Israel due to security concerns, Israeli carriers El Al and Israir became nearly the sole providers still flying. The result: their share prices soared, and their owners saw massive financial gains. According to The Marker, Kenny Rosenberg, a frum businessman from the U.S. who holds the majority stake in El Al, earned a staggering NIS 250 million ($69 million) in just two days, following a 10% jump in El Al’s stock. At the same time, Rami Levy, a well-known Israeli entrepreneur and majority owner of Israir, saw his holdings rise by NIS 15 million ($4 million) after a 7% increase in the airline’s stock. This windfall came amid widespread cancellations by international carriers, including major European and American airlines, who suspended flights until further notice. With few alternatives left, demand for seats on El Al and Israir surged, leading to a significant increase in bookings — and a parallel spike in stock value. Meanwhile, thousands of Yidden remain stuck in airports and hotels around the world, uncertain when they will be able to return to Eretz Hakodesh. The situation has sparked frustration and deep concern among families hoping to reunite with loved ones or return home before Shabbos. El Al and Israir have continued operating flights to key destinations in Europe and the U.S., providing a lifeline for those seeking a way back. (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)