Israel Launches Pre‑Emptive Strike on Iran as Multiple Middle East Airspaces Shut Down

Israel launched what it described as a pre‑emptive strike on Iran, prompting Iran, Israel and Iraq to close their airspace and triggering major disruption across key aviation corridors.

Explosions were reported in Tehran and several other Iranian cities following the strikes, with Iranian state media acknowledging multiple blasts. Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation issued a NOTAM closing the entire Iranian airspace until further notice, forcing all overflying traffic to exit the FIR.

Israel’s Ministry of Transport confirmed that Israeli airspace was closed after the strikes, with authorities instructing citizens to stay away from airports and announcing that flights would resume only when the security situation allows.

The situation escalated further when Iraq’s Ministry of Transport announced the closure of Iraqi airspace, stating that all air traffic had been evacuated prior to the shutdown.

Flight‑tracking data showed skies over Iran, Iraq, Jordan and Israel largely empty as airlines diverted away from the region. Although Jordan did not issue a formal closure, traffic avoidance was widespread due to proximity to the conflict.

Airlines operating long‑haul routes between Europe and Asia began rerouting south over Saudi Arabia and Oman or north via Central Asia, adding significant flight time and complicating crew scheduling. Gulf carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad confirmed reroutes to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace.

Authorities also warned of intense GPS interference across the region, a recurring issue during previous escalations, further complicating navigation and surveillance.

The geopolitical situation remains fluid, with Iranian officials condemning the strikes and warning of a response. Governments across the region have raised alert levels amid concerns of further escalation.