Arab States Close Airspace and Seas Amid US Israel Strikes on Iran
Several Arab countries suspended air and sea traffic on Saturday as the United States and Israel continued strikes on Iran, prompting missile interceptions and heightened regional tension.
Authorities in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria and Morocco announced temporary restrictions in response to the escalating situation.
Qatar Suspends Air and Maritime Traffic
Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority ordered a temporary suspension of air navigation. At the same time, the Ministry of Transport instructed vessel owners and maritime operators to halt sea movements after authorities intercepted missiles.
Officials said the measures aim to protect public safety and maintain security.
UAE Enacts Partial Airspace Closure
In the United Arab Emirates, the General Civil Aviation Authority introduced a temporary and partial closure of national airspace as a precaution.
According to the state news agency WAM, officials conducted a comprehensive risk assessment before taking action. Authorities emphasized that they coordinated the move with local and international partners to ensure flight safety and protect national territory.
Kuwait Halts Flights to Iran
Kuwait suspended and canceled all flights to Iran until further notice. The Kuwait News Agency cited Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Abdullah al-Rajhi, who linked the decision to regional developments and the full closure of Iranian airspace.
He also warned that additional flights could face disruption if their routes previously relied on Iranian airspace.
Bahrain Warns of Disruptions
Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs confirmed that the closure of its airspace, along with restrictions in neighboring countries, may lead to flight diversions, cancellations or delays at Bahrain International Airport.
Saudi Arabia Cancels Regional Routes
Saudi Arabia canceled flights to and from several cities, including Amman, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Moscow and Peshawar.
The airline stated that cancellations would remain in place until 11:59 p.m. on March 2. Officials urged passengers to verify flight schedules before traveling to airports.
Iraq Closes National Airspace
Iraq’s Transport Ministry shut down the country’s airspace entirely.
The Iraqi News Agency quoted ministry spokesman Maytham al-Safi, who confirmed that authorities cleared all aircraft from Iraqi skies before implementing the closure.
Syria Restricts Southern Air Corridors
Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport temporarily closed southern air corridors for 12 hours starting at noon Saturday, Damascus time.
Authorities redirected flights through approved alternative routes to maintain operations safely.
Morocco Cancels Middle East Flights
In North Africa, Royal Air Maroc canceled several flights to the Middle East due to airspace restrictions. The airline said further cancellations may follow, depending on safety conditions. It also advised passengers to confirm flight details and update contact information.
Rising Security Concerns Across the Region
Earlier in the day, six Arab countries — Jordan, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE — reported explosions, missile interceptions, three fatalities and civilian evacuations linked to the conflict.
The region hosts a substantial U.S. military presence. In Bahrain, the headquarters of the United States Fifth Fleet operates from Manama. In Qatar, U.S. forces use Al Udeid Air Base.
Additionally, U.S. troops are stationed at Ali Al Salem Air Base and Al Dhafra Air Base. In Iraq, they operate from Ain al-Asad Air Base and Erbil Air Base. Meanwhile, in Jordan, U.S. forces use Muwaffaq Salti Air Base near Amman.
As strikes and countermeasures continue, regional governments remain on high alert to safeguard airspace, maritime routes and civilian populations.
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