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Iraq extends airspace closure amid security concerns

Mar. 22, 2026 • 2 min read
Image of Iraq extends airspace closure amid security concerns An Iraqi Airways plane. Photo: Iraqi Airways/Facebook

Iraq on Sunday extended the closure of its airspace for an additional 72 hours, citing ongoing assessments of the security situation and regional developments.

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Iraq on Sunday announced the extension of its airspace closure by an additional 72 hours, due to the “security situation and regional developments,” state media reported.

 

The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority said the closure applies to all incoming, outgoing, and transit flights. The extension will remain in place until 12:00 pm local time on Wednesday.

 

The authority explained that the measure came due to the “ongoing assessment of the security situation and developments in the regional situation.” 

 

Airlines and relevant authorities will be notified of any further updates, the statement said.

 

Iraq’s airspace has been closed since February 28, when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran

 

The area surrounding Baghdad International Airport, including the US Camp Victory base and nearby diplomatic facilities, has seen repeated drone attacks in recent days.

 

A drone strike on early Saturday hit Camp Victory, with footage showing fires inside the facility and reports indicating the logistical support center was targeted. No casualties or damage assessments have been officially confirmed.

 

The attack came amid a surge in operations by pro-Iran Iraqi armed groups, who claimed responsibility and said they had carried out multiple strikes against US targets within 24 hours.

 

On Friday alone, three drones struck the vicinity of the diplomatic support facility near the airport. These attacks are part of a broader escalation following the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, with armed factions warning that operations will continue to intensify.

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