Flights Grounded as Middle East Turmoil Escalates

Airlines across the globe halted routes over the Middle East after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iranian targets. The sudden military actions prompted a swift response: many carriers withdrew from the region to avoid potential threats and navigate uncertain airspace. The interruption came amid a tense diplomatic backdrop, where hopes for resolving Iran’s nuclear talks had been fragile. The latest flare‑up reignited concerns that the region could slip back into widespread conflict, especially after weeks of U. S. military buildup.With Russian and Ukrainian skies already closed due to war, the Middle East has become a vital link between Europe and Asia. When this area goes dark for flights, airlines face longer routes, higher fuel costs, and the risk of being caught in hostile operations. Several airlines announced immediate suspensions. Lufthansa paused flights to and from Dubai, while Air France cut services to Tel Aviv and Beirut. Iberia, Wizz Air, and Qatar Airways all paused routes involving Israel and nearby cities. The United Arab Emirates temporarily closed parts of its airspace, and Virgin Atlantic avoided Iraqi skies. These moves illustrate how quickly international travel can be disrupted by geopolitical events, forcing airlines to adapt rapidly and prioritize safety over schedules.