TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Iran temporarily closed its western airspace on Saturday, May 23, 2026, amid escalating tensions and concerns about potential new US strikes against Tehran.
According to a report by Gulf News, the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran announced that all civil flight permits in airports within the western sector of the Tehran Flight Information Region are suspended temporarily.
The policy was announced while diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States are still ongoing.
In its statement, Iranian aviation authorities mentioned that only eight airports across the country remain operational. These airports include Mehrabad and Imam Khomeini airports in Tehran, as well as airports in Isfahan and Yazd.
However, flight operations at these airports are also restricted. Flights are only allowed during daylight hours, from sunrise to sunset. Each airline is also required to obtain new approval from the Iran Civil Aviation Organization for every flight conducted.
Targeting Iran's Strategic Infrastructure
As reported by The Indian Express, airspace closure signals Iran's anticipation of possible military strikes in the coming days. The western region of Iran is known to be the location of much of the country's nuclear infrastructure, missiles, and air defenses.
A number of strategic facilities in Iran are located in this area, including Natanz, Fordow, Arak, and Kermanshah. These locations have repeatedly been targeted since the outbreak of the conflict on February 28.
The report also mentioned that Iran's airspace had actually been classified as closed in international aviation safety advisories since the start of the war. However, Iran's recent notice is said to be the most extensive restriction in recent weeks.
Additionally, reports from Tehran also noted unusual activities within the Iranian Air Force, including the movement of fighter jets from Mehrabad Airport.
United States Prepares for Strike Options
Iran's airspace closure occurred hours after reports surfaced about the potential of new military actions by the United States against Iran.
The Trump administration is reportedly preparing for potential new strikes against Iran. This decision has sparked speculation about possible military responses from Washington to the developments in the Middle East.
Read: US, Iran Strike Upbeat Tone as Hormuz Deal Takes Shape
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