Iran Closes Airspace Amid Rising Tensions With U.S.

Iran closed its airspace to commercial flights for over four hours, affecting global aviation. The shutdown follows heightened tensions with the U.S. over Iran's crackdown on protests. The closure raised concerns of military activity, with previous incidents of missile misfires still fresh in minds.

In a move that rattled the aviation industry, Iran unexpectedly closed its airspace to commercial flights for several hours on Thursday. The decision comes amid escalating tensions with the United States over Iran's recent harsh response to nationwide protests.

The airspace closure, lasting over four hours, disrupted major East-West flight routes, forcing international carriers to divert around Iranian territory. Though Iran offered no official explanation, the move drew parallels to past incidents involving regional conflicts.

Experts warn the closure may signal potential military activity, including missile launches, posing risks of misidentification of civil aircraft. Observers recall the tragic downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane by Iran in 2020, a reminder of the dangers in the volatile airspace.

(With inputs from agencies.)