Iberia has apologised and opened an investigation after several Jewish passengers were served kosher meals marked with the words “Free Palestine” during a long-haul flight from Buenos Aires to Madrid.
The incident occurred on flight IB0102, which departed Buenos Aires on Monday afternoon and arrived in Madrid on Tuesday morning. According to the Delegación de Asociaciones Israelitas Argentinas (DAIA), Argentina’s umbrella organisation for Jewish associations, one passenger received a meal tray with “Free Palestine” handwritten on the packaging, while others found the initials “FP”. Photos of the defaced meals were shared on DAIA’s website and on social media.
DAIA condemned the act as “a serious expression of antisemitism” and contacted Iberia demanding clarification and immediate action. While intent has yet to be established, the organisation believes the fact the messages were written on kosher meals shows the targeting of Jewish passengers.
Iberia confirmed the events in a statement, calling it “an unacceptable incident” and “deeply shocking”. Cabin crew immediately reported the matter to the flight’s captain, who personally apologised to the affected passengers on behalf of the airline. “This is totally contrary to our values of respect and inclusion,” the carrier said.
The airline is now investigating who was responsible for writing the messages, looking both at internal handling and external catering providers. Iberia pledged to take “all necessary measures” following the outcome of the inquiry.
Grave acto de antisemitismo en vuelo de @Iberia denunciado en la DAIA
En el vuelo IB0102 Buenos Aires–Madrid, el pasajero Salvador Auday recibió su bandeja de comida kosher con la leyenda “Free Palestine”. Otros pasajeros judíos también recibieron bandejas con las iniciales… pic.twitter.com/2srkgOGIQU
— DAIA (@DAIAArgentina) August 4, 2025