Authorities in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region closed their airspace for 72 hours after Iran launched a new wave of missiles toward Israel. Officials introduced the measure to protect civilian aviation as tensions across the Middle East continue to grow.
Ahmed Hoshyar, Director of Erbil International Airport, confirmed that airport authorities halted all flights for three days. The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority also closed Iraqi airspace during the same period. Officials said the decision will help ensure passenger safety while regional security risks remain high.
Iran launched the missiles after recent Israeli military operations in Lebanon. The attack increased fears that the conflict could spread across the region and involve more countries.
The Israeli military reported that its defense systems detected missiles heading toward Israeli territory. Security officials activated warning sirens in several cities and regions across the country. Emergency teams and military units immediately moved to a higher state of readiness.
Iranian media outlets reported that military forces fired the missiles from Kermanshah, a city in western Iran near the Iraqi border. The area serves as an important military and logistical hub.
Iranian authorities also restricted air traffic in parts of the country. Officials closed sections of western Iranian airspace after reviewing security conditions. Several neighboring countries took similar steps and introduced temporary flight restrictions.
After the attack, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters accused Israel of expanding military operations in Lebanon and increasing regional tensions. Iranian military leaders criticized the international response and warned that Iran could take stronger action if the conflict continues.
The latest confrontation has heightened concerns about stability in the Middle East. Governments, airlines, and aviation authorities continue to monitor developments closely. Travelers should check airline updates regularly because officials may extend or adjust flight restrictions as the situation evolves.
