Israel shuts airspace after launching ‘unprovoked’ strikes on Iran

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Israel has closed its airspace to civilian flights following a military operation against Iran, as tensions escalate across the region.

Authorities in Israel confirmed on Saturday that the action followed what officials described as a preemptive strike on Iran. Air raid sirens were activated in Jerusalem, while residents across the country received emergency alerts warning of an “extremely serious” threat.

In a statement, the defence ministry said: “The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran.

“Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country.”

In Iran, witnesses reported explosions in the capital, Tehran. Two loud blasts were heard, and thick smoke was seen rising from parts of the city.

Iranian news outlet Fars suggested the nature of the incident. “The type of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” the agency reported.

Following the development, Israel announced a complete shutdown of its airspace. The country’s transportation minister, Miri Regev, said: “Following the security developments, the Minister of Transportation has ordered the Director of the Israel Civil Aviation Authority to close the airspace of the State of Israel to civilian flights.”

Iran also took a similar step. Its Civil Aviation Organisation confirmed that flights have been suspended nationwide. “The airspace of the entire country is closed until further notice,” a spokesman said.

The situation has prompted precautionary measures beyond the two countries. In Qatar, the United States embassy directed its staff to remain indoors as a safety measure.

The latest developments have raised fears of a wider confrontation, with both countries taking urgent steps to secure their territories.