Jordan and Iraq announced the closure of their airspace and the suspension of all flights on Friday, following Israel’s military strikes against Iran. The Jordanian Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the temporary halt of all incoming, outgoing, and transit flights as a precaution amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iraqi authorities also suspended air traffic at all airports, citing security concerns linked to the unfolding regional conflict.

The decision reflects both countries’ efforts to avoid becoming embroiled in the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran. Jordan’s government emphasized its firm stance against allowing its territory to become a battlefield. “Jordan will not permit any violations of its airspace and refuses to be a battleground for conflict,” stated government spokesperson Mohammad Momani. Similarly, Iraq’s transport ministry stressed the closure aimed to protect civilians and maintain national security during the volatile situation.

The closure follows a significant Israeli military operation, named Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities, ballistic missile programs, and key scientific personnel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the offensive, stating it was necessary to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities. Israel’s Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, remarked that the attack was a decisive move to confront threats to Israel’s existence, highlighting the urgency of halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The regional tensions have prompted airlines to reroute flights, avoiding airspace over Iran, Iraq, Israel, and Jordan, according to flight tracking data. This development signals a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, with neighboring countries taking precautionary measures to safeguard their airspace and citizens.