Iran warns aircraft as tensions soar over possible Israel strike
Iran has issued a warning to aircraft to avoid the airspace over parts of the country. Tehran's actions have caused considerable concern, especially in connection with the announced retaliation against Israel.
The authorities in Tehran issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to pilots, instructing them to avoid the airspace over the central, western, and northwestern regions of the country.
Some pilots have already altered their routes. On flight tracking maps, one can observe increasing traffic over Iraq and a noticeable absence over Iran.
The announcement has caused quite a stir. Iran has been threatening to carry out an attack on Israel for several days. The attack is likely to be carried out in conjunction with the Lebanese group Hezbollah as an act of retaliation.
In recent months, the situation in the Middle East has become exceptionally tense. Last week, there was an attack in Beirut, which killed Fuad Shukr, the military leader of Hezbollah. The next day, in an attack on Tehran, Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, was killed. Both Iran and Hamas accuse Israel of responsibility for these attacks, although Israel has not confirmed its involvement.
The USA set the timing
The USA believes that the attack may happen on Monday or Tuesday. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reportedly conveyed this information during a conversation with G7 ministers.
Israel is preparing for the possibility of several days of rocket and drone raids from Iran and its allies. As reported by NBC television, Israel expects the opponent will try to "exhaust" it. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a security cabinet meeting on Sunday, assured that any attack would be met with a response.
