US Dismisses Putin's Assertion of Western Involvement in Anti-Semitic Airport Incident

The United States has rejected Russia's claims that the anti-Israel riot at an airport in Dagestan was orchestrated by Ukraine and the West, calling the allegations "absurd." Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the incident was part of a plot to create chaos in Russia. The riot occurred when hundreds stormed Makhachkala airport in anticipation of a flight from Tel Aviv. Many displayed Palestinian flags and chanted anti-Semitic slogans. The outbreak of violence is believed to have been triggered by anger over the conflict in Gaza. Security forces eventually restored order and over 60 individuals have been arrested. Putin attributed the events to foreign interference through social media, particularly from Ukraine and Western intelligence agencies, claiming that the US and its allies are the primary beneficiaries of global instability. The Russian government stated that enemies are exploiting the situation as they broadcast distressing footage from the Gaza Strip. Dagestan Governor Sergei Melikov blamed the riots on traitors from Ukraine inciting unrest through an Islamist channel called Morning Dagestan, while the channel denied any connection to Ukraine or former Russian MP Ilya Ponomarev. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the airport riot. The US Nation Security Council dismissed Russia's accusations as typical Russian rhetoric, asserting that the West had no involvement and labeling the incident as an expression of hate, intolerance, and intimidation. The comparison between the airport footage and historical pogroms was deemed fitting. Videos circulating on social media showed a large crowd storming the airport, breaking doors, and spilling onto the runway. Some individuals were seen stopping cars and demanding proof of passengers' identities in search of Israeli passports. The Russian health ministry reported that 20 people, including police officers, sustained injuries, with two in critical condition. While condemning the actions of the perpetrators, Dagestani Governor Melikov described the events as outrageous. A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office expressed great concern regarding attempts to harm Israeli citizens and Jews anywhere, urging Russian authorities to protect their well-being and take decisive action against the rioters.