After the announced ceasefire between the United States and Iran, Iraq has reopened its airspace to civilian air traffic. The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority stated that the situation has stabilized, allowing flights to resume as normal. This also applies to air traffic in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Accordingly, overflights as well as takeoffs and landings at Iraqi airports are now permitted again. The measure follows a period of major disruptions in regional air traffic due to the military escalation since the end of February. During the US-Israeli-Iranian conflict, several countries in the region, including Gulf states, had temporarily closed their airspace. Iraq was particularly affected due to its geographical location.
The trigger for this development is a ceasefire announced between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump agreed to a proposal for a two-week truce shortly before the expiration of an ultimatum. In return, Tehran is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic. Iran subsequently signaled its willingness.
Israel also announced its agreement to the arrangement. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that this does not apply to military operations in Lebanon. Attacks in the context of the conflict with Hezbollah are therefore expected to continue.
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