Pakistan has announced the indefinite closure of all border crossings with Iran, a decision influenced by the escalating tensions resulting from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. This closure underscores the significant disruptions faced by travel and trade in the region, particularly as airspace has been effectively barred due to the heightened military activity involving missile exchanges between neighboring countries.
According to Atta ul Munim, an official overseeing the Chaghi district crossings, the access to Iran has been halted “until further notice.” In tandem with this, Qadir Bakhsh Pirkani, a senior Balochistan official, confirmed that facilities along the extensive 900-kilometer border have been deactivated to ensure safety amid rising concerns.
Iran has taken proactive measures by closing its airspace in response to potential threats, emphasizing the commitment to safeguard passenger safety. The nation’s Civil Aviation Authority has declared that its airspace will remain closed indefinitely as part of the efforts to protect travelers. Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport has also ceased operations under similar safety concerns, with the national airline, El Al, suspending all flights until at least the upcoming Thursday and extending cancellations to various European destinations through June 23.
Notably, three land border crossings between Israel and Jordan—the Jordan River, the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge, and the Yitzhak Rabin crossings—remain operational, providing an avenue for some travel amid the turmoil. However, the Israeli National Security Council has advised citizens against traveling through Jordan and Egypt due to perceived security risks. The Airports Authority in Israel indicated that there are no recommended travel options for citizens intending to visit Greece or Cyprus, as long delays in flight returns are anticipated.
In a cautious response to the regional conflict, Jordan has activated the closure of its airspace for a second time since the commencement of the recent hostilities, following reports of ballistic missiles entering its territory, which were successfully intercepted by Jordanian defense forces.
Countries worldwide are mobilizing to ensure the safety of their nationals in the conflict regions. Poland’s Deputy Foreign Minister revealed plans to redirect approximately 200 of its citizens from Israel through Jordan. India, too, is actively engaged in facilitating the relocation of its students situated in Iran, with the embassy in Tehran closely monitoring the evolving security landscape.
Several airlines have also responded to the crisis by halting flights. Russia’s Aeroflot is among those that have canceled its services between Moscow and Tehran, while Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended operations to and from Iran, Iraq, and Syria. In a similar vein, Greece’s Aegean Airlines has called off flights to and from Tel Aviv, as well as to Beirut, Amman, and Erbil for the foreseeable future.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on ensuring safety and stability in the region, with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation and support for affected individuals.
#WorldNews #MiddleEastNews