WASHINGTON: Growing concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East have led international airlines to suspend flights to the region or avoid affected airspace. US officials have warned of potential significant attacks by Iran or its allies as soon as this week.
The Pentagon has already sent a guided missile submarine to the region, and an aircraft carrier strike group, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln with F-35 fighters, is on its way.
These actions follow a warning from Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin that Iran is preparing for a large-scale military attack on Israel.
This surge in activity comes after Iran and Hezbollah vowed to retaliate for the recent killings of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.
On Monday, US President Joe Biden spoke with the leaders of Britain, France, Germany, and Italy to discuss the growing tensions, including Iran’s threats against Israel. The call was aimed at reaffirming support for Israel’s defense and sending a strong message against any rise in violence.
“We have to be prepared for what could be significant attacks,” said National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. He noted that the US has increased its military presence in the region, sharing Israel’s concerns that an attack could happen this week.
Israel is closely monitoring developments in Iran but has not changed its precautionary guidelines for the public, according to an Israeli military spokesperson.
Meanwhile, at least 17 airlines, including Lufthansa, EasyJet, Ryanair, United, Delta, Air France-KLM, Air India, and Singapore Airlines, have temporarily suspended flights in the region. Air France extended its suspension of flights between Paris and Beirut until August 14, while KLM canceled all flights to and from Tel Aviv until October 26.
Lufthansa also suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv, Tehran, Beirut, Amman, and Erbil, and extended its avoidance of Iranian and Iraqi airspace until August 21.
In a separate development, Iran showcased its long-range Mohajer-10 drones at a defense exhibit in Russia. The US has accused Iran of sending drones to Russia for use in Ukraine, a claim that Iran denies. The new Mohajer-10 system, which has an operational range of 2,000 km and can fly for up to 24 hours, was on display at the Army 2024 International Military-Technical Forum in Russia.