Iraq Extends Airspace Closure 72 Hours

Iraq has extended the closure of its airspace to all incoming, outgoing, and transit flights for an additional 72 hours, citing escalating regional security risks.

The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority said the decision took effect at 12:00 p.m. Thursday and will remain in place until 12:00 p.m. Sunday as a temporary precautionary measure. Officials added that the move is based on ongoing security assessments and could be revised depending on developments.

The extension comes amid intensifying regional conflict. Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces reported that US airstrikes on its positions since early March have killed 27 fighters and wounded 50 others, with a total of 32 strikes recorded.

The escalation is part of a broader conflict that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated attacks on Iran. The strikes have resulted in hundreds of deaths, including senior figures, while Tehran has responded with missiles and drones targeting Israeli territory.

Iran has also carried out attacks on what it describes as US interests in several Arab countries, causing casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure, actions that have been widely condemned by affected states.