British Airways: Following the US strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran and Tehran’s pledge of retaliation, British Airways suspended flights to Dubai and Doha. The move added to disruptions in the Persian Gulf aviation industry.
According to Flightradar24 data, the London-based airline diverted two aircraft bound for the emirate. It also canceled multiple flights to Dubai overnight. The flight tracking website reported that one flight, which took off from Heathrow Airport on Saturday night, was rerouted to Zurich after entering Saudi Arabian airspace early Sunday morning. Another Dubai-bound plane reached Egypt before turning back to Heathrow.
Suspended flights to Bahrain:
Due to operating limitations and airspace restrictions, the airline suspended flights to Bahrain through the end of the month. It also canceled flights to Doha, the capital of Qatar, on Sunday. After Israel bombed Iran last week, several American and European airlines suspended flights to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. British Airways said it modified its flight schedule in response to earlier incidents. The airline stated that it made the changes to protect both passengers and staff.
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These actions highlight growing concerns in a part of the Middle East that many have long considered stable and shielded from regional turmoil. Despite repeatedly vowing to avoid new wars, US President Donald Trump confirmed that American bombers struck Iran’s three main nuclear sites on Sunday. He also warned Tehran of more attacks if it refuses to surrender, pulling the US directly into Iran’s conflict with Israel.
In response, Iran warned that it would target US bases in the Persian Gulf if Washington intervenes or attempts to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil trade route shared with Oman and the United Arab Emirates. The US Navy’s Fifth Fleet operates from Bahrain, while the region’s largest American base is located in Qatar. Reacting to the shifting situation, Bahrain announced on Sunday that 70% of its government ministries and departments would now work remotely.
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