Several Middle Eastern nations have halted flight operations within their airspace following reports of an imminent Iranian drone attack on Israel and the confirmed launch of a swarm of unmanned aerial vehicles by Tehran.

Jordan initiated airspace closure on April 13, 2024, at 2300L (2000Z) for a three-hour duration, citing "operational reasons," although the Jordanian Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission attributed it to escalating regional tensions. The closure led to the cancellation, diversion, or delay of approximately 40 flights.

Israel announced the closure of its airspace from April 14, 2024, at 0030L (2130Z) until April 15, 0700L (0400Z), citing "military activity" as the reason.

Similarly, Iraq closed its airspace from April 14, 2345L (2045Z) to April 15, 0530L (0230Z), citing "operational reasons."

Lebanon will close its airspace from April 15, 0100L (2200Z on April 14) until April 15, 0700L (0400Z).

In contrast, Iran imposed a ban on all VFR operations in its airspace from April 13, 2024, at 1901L (1531Z) until April 24, 2024. However, military, emergency, and pre-approved flights remain unaffected. Despite the airspace remaining open, many airlines are avoiding overflight of Iran, with exceptions including UAE-based carriers like Emirates, flydubai, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi.