Social Equality Minister May Golan traveled to the United States during the ongoing war with Iran to speak at an International Women's Day event organized by the United Nations. Her departure comes as Israel faces sustained Iranian missile fire and severely restricted air travel.

Israel's airspace was closed after a joint Israeli and American strike on Iran prompted retaliatory barrages. Although Ben Gurion Airport has partially reopened, outbound flights remain extremely limited, with only a small number of passengers permitted to leave each hour.

Critics have condemned Golan's trip, noting that many Israelis and foreign nationals are struggling to exit the country. Opposition Member of Knesset Vladimir Beliak criticized her for traveling with her entourage during wartime while her ministry faces budget cuts and vulnerable communities feel neglected.

Golan is also under police investigation on suspicion of accepting bribes under aggravated circumstances and receiving improper benefits.