The countries resumed flights after a brief closure due to security concerns from Iranian missile and drone strikes.
Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon announced the reopening of their airspace earlier today after a temporary closure. The shutdown occurred late on Saturday as Iran initiated drone and missile attacks targeting Israel. This event marked a significant escalation in regional tensions, prompting immediate responses from neighbouring nations.
Jordan’s state television confirmed that air traffic operations had recommenced, with the airspace opening three hours ahead of the initially planned schedule. This early reopening reflects a swift resolution to the immediate threats that had led to the previous day’s closure.
Embed from Getty ImagesIn Iraq, the aviation authorities declared that they had addressed the security risks that prompted the airspace closure. The quick response ensured that normal air travel could resume without further delays, minimizing disruption to scheduled flights and passenger itineraries.
Lebanon’s main airport, too, returned to full operation following the overnight shutdown. The country’s state television highlighted the coordinated efforts to ensure safety and security for all transit operations, reflecting the intense cooperation between civil and military aviation authorities.
This sequence of closures and reopenings came as a direct consequence of Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israeli territory. Utilizing explosive drones and missiles, Iran’s actions have raised alarms over the possibility of a broader regional conflict. The attacks represent a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, with potential implications for global geopolitical stability.
Jordan, situated geographically between Iran and Israel, had activated its air defence systems to counter any potential threats traversing its airspace. According to regional security sources, the measures were precautionary and aimed at defending Jordanian sovereignty against the fallout from the conflict next door.
Moreover, international involvement was noted during the incidents, with U.S. and British warplanes engaging and neutralizing several drones intended for Israel. These drones were intercepted over the Iraq-Syria border, indicating the broad scope of the military responses and the strategic importance of airspace control in conflict situations.