Old City Vendors Say Flight Shortages and High Fares Are Hurting Business

Merchants across Jerusalem's Jewish, Muslim, Christian and Armenian quarters say inbound tourism has remained weak nearly three years after the October 7 war began. Shop owners blamed limited flights, high fares, cancellations and travelers' security concerns for sharply reduced foot traffic, with one Armenian ceramics seller calling it the worst period in more than 40 years. Tourism expert Eran Ketter also cited geopolitical instability, a stronger shekel and elevated costs. Tourism Ministry Director-General Michael Izhakov said air access is the central bottleneck and that officials are working with airlines and the Transportation Ministry.