BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA) announced the full reopening of the country’s airspace on Wednesday, marking a critical step toward regional stabilization following a breakthrough ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
The decision, confirmed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), allows for the immediate resumption of all civilian flights, including overflights and takeoffs and landings at Iraqi airports. The move ends a weeks-long closure that had effectively grounded air travel in the region as military tensions reached a fever pitch.
A Breakthrough in Diplomacy
The reopening follows a dramatic announcement late Tuesday by U.S. President Donald Trump, who agreed to “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks.”
The decision came less than two hours before a self-imposed 8:00 PM Eastern Time deadline that threatened the “destruction of an entire civilization” unless Iran agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and accept a new diplomatic framework.
Key Terms of the Ceasefire
- Duration: A two-week suspension of hostilities to allow for diplomacy.
- Strait of Hormuz: Iran has agreed to allow “safe passage” for vessels through the strategic chokepoint.
- Negotiations: Discussions are expected to begin as early as Friday in Pakistan to finalize a long-term armistice.
Caution Remains
While the reopening of Iraqi airspace is a welcome sign for the aviation industry, the situation remains “fragile.” In a statement, the ICAA noted that the decision follows the “stabilization of the situation,” but security agencies remain on high alert.
International carriers, including those in Europe and Asia, are expected to resume routes over Iraq gradually as they reassess safety protocols. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that while Israel supports the ceasefire, military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon will continue separately, as they are not included in the two-week truce.
