Airlines Ground Middle East Services Amid Looming US Military Action Against Iran

International air travel to the Middle East has been significantly disrupted as escalating tensions between the United States and Iran have prompted major global airlines to suspend or restrict flights over security concerns, placing the aviation industry on heightened alert.

Several leading carriers, including Dutch airline KLM, Germany’s Lufthansa, and France’s Air France, have announced cancellations or operational changes affecting routes to key Middle Eastern destinations. Flights to hubs such as Tel Aviv, Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam have been impacted, with airlines citing the volatile geopolitical situation and potential military confrontation in the region.

Air France confirmed it has temporarily suspended services to Dubai, stating that the decision was taken “due to the current situation in the Middle East.” The airline added that it is closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. KLM, meanwhile, has halted flights that would require transit through the airspace of Iran, Iraq, Israel, and several Gulf countries, saying it remains in contact with Dutch authorities regarding further assessments.

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The disruptions come amid growing speculation that the United States could use military force against Iran. President Donald Trump has warned that a large US naval deployment is heading toward the region, describing it as a precautionary move. The fleet, reportedly including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group and guided-missile destroyers, is expected to arrive in the Arabian Sea or Persian Gulf in the coming days.

Lufthansa Group has restricted its operations by allowing only daytime flights to Israel and continues to avoid Iranian airspace altogether. Other international carriers, including United Airlines and Air Canada, have also cancelled flights to Tel Aviv, reflecting broader industry caution.

Aviation bodies have warned of increased risks to civilian aircraft from potential missile or drone activity. These concerns were underscored last week when Iran temporarily closed its airspace for several hours amid fears of US military action, disrupting flights worldwide. Airlines have indicated that schedules will remain under review as regional tensions continue to evolve.

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