I am writing on behalf of my mother 74 years old, who was the passenger on the ELAL flight.
My mother bought ticket through travel agent and paid more (then prices on internet) in order to get isle seat prior the purchase. She has medical problem with her knee and have to seat in isle seat. Agent confirmed isle seat reservation prior the purchase. Agent assigned her isle seat 36G.
She performed on-line check-in 24 hour before the flight and confirmed the same seat. In the airport, 3 hours before flight, check-in again confirmed isle seat 36G. (Flight LY0008 ). On the gate agent moved her in the last minute, so crew’s young friends could seat together. She refused to change seat due to medical condition, but the ELAL crew didn't allow her to get on plane. She was the last one. All seats including the new assigned were taken and after long search on plane they put her in the middle seat. ELAL threatened to arrest her and call police unless she obeys seat change. Manager on the gate humiliate and terrorized her, if she refuse to take the seat they decided to give her in the last moment. She is old person (74 years old) and the long flight is not easy for her, but they made it a nightmare.

I am her daughter and I complained to ELAL Israel prior to her trip back to USA. ELAL admitted inappropriate service and promised to punish person responsible.
Quote from ELAL response: “I can assure you that ELAL understand that your mother received inappropriate service…” It was supervisor of ground operation Greg Polak. He was called to a hearing in order to learn and ensure improved service in the future”. ELAL promises that “ she will receive the best service on her return flight”
ELAL also wrote to us: “We recently changed our reservation system and there have been some errors in the system” We have located the member of staff on duty on the 22nd of July who upset your mother. Your mother’s experience will be placed in his personal file.
ELAL claims on their website that they can change the seat in order to improve conditions for seniors, kids and disabled. She is a senior person. Also it should be really good reason for seats changing, e.g. changing flight configuration in the last moment.
We suggested settling with no money but proper service on the way back. The same story on way back, they tried to change seat, despite promises for a good service. Changed seat from 48C to 53 A (isle to window) Flight LY0011
ELAL choose to violate rights of elderly people, who are not able to defend themselves, which is particularly shameful for the airline.