We Believe in Israel (WBII) is appalled by the disturbing incident aboard Vueling Airlines flight V8166 from Valencia to Paris on 23 July 2025, where 44 Jewish children and eight accompanying adults were forcibly removed from the plane. Reports indicate that the children, who were part of a French Jewish summer camp group, were initially questioned about their nationality, with concerns raised that they might be Israeli — a deeply troubling and discriminatory line of inquiry.

Witnesses confirm that the children were singing in Hebrew prior to take-off but had complied when asked to stop. Despite their compliance, Spanish security, including members of the Guardia Civil, boarded the plane, forcibly removing the group and detaining their youth leader. Allegations have since emerged that crew members referred to Israel as a “terrorist state,” a comment that, if true, would reflect gross antisemitic prejudice.

Vueling Airlines has claimed the removal was due to “highly disruptive behaviour” and safety concerns, including alleged tampering with emergency equipment. However, these claims stand in stark contrast to multiple passenger testimonies and statements from community leaders, including Israel’s Diaspora Affairs Minister, who condemned the incident as “one of the most severe antisemitic acts seen recently.”

No child should be made to feel unsafe or humiliated simply for expressing their identity or heritage. WBII calls on Vueling Airlines and the Spanish authorities to launch an immediate and transparent investigation, release all relevant documentation, and offer a public apology to the children and their families.

This incident is a grim reminder of the growing normalisation of antisemitic behaviour across Europe. WBII stands firmly with the victims of this unacceptable act and demands accountability to ensure such incidents never occur again.