Travel Disruptions Persist in Middle East Amid Israel–Iran Conflict

Air travelers are facing ongoing disruption across the Middle East following the recent military escalation involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, despite some regional airspaces reopening.

Qatar reopened its airspace late Monday after temporarily closing it due to Iranian missile strikes on Al Udeid Air Base. However, flights in and out of Doha, Dubai, and other Gulf hubs remain limited. Major carriers including Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and British Airways continue to delay or reroute services as operations slowly recover.

India has begun evacuating its citizens from Gulf countries using military aircraft, after many travelers — including students — were stranded amid sudden airspace closures in Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Meanwhile, rerouting and flight cancellations have caused major delays for passengers across multiple international corridors.

Over 160 flights have reportedly been diverted since the initial outbreak of hostilities. A Qantas flight from Perth to Paris was forced to turn back mid-flight, and Singapore Airlines has suspended flights to Dubai until at least June 25. Australian airlines have advised customers to postpone travel until stability returns.

Though no major aviation incidents have been reported, logistics remain strained. Airlines are working to restructure routes, with added fuel loads and longer flight times due to detours around sensitive airspace.

The U.S. State Department has issued a worldwide travel alert, urging American citizens to remain cautious and follow updates from airlines and local embassies. Travelers are being advised to register for emergency assistance and consider delaying nonessential trips.

While some operations are gradually resuming, experts warn that regional flight disruptions may persist until a broader and more stable ceasefire is achieved.

With input from Al Jazeera