An Argentine Jewish passenger on Iberia flight IB102 from Buenos Aires (EZE) to Madrid (MAD) was shocked to discover “Free Palestine” handwritten on the packaging of his kosher meal. Several other kosher meals were also marked with “FP.” Iberia has opened an investigation into the source of the messaging.

Kosher Meals Handed Out On Iberia Flight Found Labeled “Free Palestine”

On August 4, 2025, after requesting kosher meals onboard flight IB102, passenger Salvador Auday received his tray with the words “Free Palestine” written in black ink. Other meals bore only the initials “FP,” apparently written with the same pen. The flight was bound for Madrid, with some passengers continuing to Israel.

Auday told Argentinian Jewish outlet Vis á Vis that he immediately informed the head flight attendant, who apologized, took photographs, and documented the incident. Auday believes the message was written before the meal reached the aircraft, suggesting it occurred at the catering facility rather than onboard.

“I reported the incident to the head flight attendant, who took down the complaint, took photos, etc. They tried to apologize in every possible way. Apparently, it wasn’t any of the crew members, so if it came from outside, I’d imagine that Iberia will conduct an internal investigation of its suppliers and procedures. That’s precisely why I reported it, so that it doesn’t get forgotten.”

Argentina’s main Jewish umbrella group, the Delegation of Argentine Jewish Associations (DAIA), condemned the incident as a “serious act of antisemitism” and called on Iberia to take swift disciplinary action and ensure the safety and dignity of Jewish travelers.

Iberia issued a brief statement saying the captain and crew responded professionally, documented the complaint, and assisted the affected passengers. The airline confirmed that a full internal investigation is underway in collaboration with its catering provider. “We categorically reject any form of discrimination, incitement to hatred, or conduct that undermines the dignity of individuals,” Iberia stated.

Link To Vueling Incident?

Kosher meals are typically double-sealed for religious certification, meaning any writing on the exterior packaging would likely occur at the catering stage, not in-flight. With Israel being pummeled in the news over its “starvation” of Gaza, it’s not surprising that a conscientious worker felt convicted to take action in that subtle way…but that does not make it any less professional. More than a political statement, it was a sign of intimidation, made to frighten the passengers who ordered those special meals.

This comes on the heels of another controversy involving IAG-owned airline Vueling, which removed a group of Jewish teens from a flight earlier this year under contentious circumstances. While Iberia acted promptly in this case, incidents like these continue to erode trust.

CONCLUSION

Whether written out of malice or as a prank, there is no place for political messages on meals meant for passengers who simply want to eat in peace. Iberia’s swift action is appreciated, but this should never have happened in the first place, regardless of your thoughts on Israel’s war in Gaza.

> Read More: 50 Jewish Students Kicked Off Vueling Flight After Singing In Hebrew

Hat Tip: One Mile At A Time