Airlines warned to avoid Iraq, Lebanon airspace amid ceasefire uncertainty

• EASA has warned airlines to avoid airspace over Iraq and Lebanon.
• The advisory is due to uncertainty surrounding the US-Iran ceasefire and potential escalation.
• The conflict-zone advisory for the region has been extended until July 8.
• EASA also noted the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as a potential risk.
• Airlines are advised to exercise caution in airspace across several Middle Eastern countries.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a warning to airlines, advising them to avoid flight routes over Iraq and Lebanon. This caution stems from the uncertainty surrounding the recent US-Iran ceasefire and the potential for rapid escalation in the region. EASA has extended its conflict-zone advisory for the Middle East until July 8, previously having it in place until July 1.

The agency highlighted that short-term violations of the US-Iran ceasefire remain possible, particularly in and around the Strait of Hormuz and its adjacent airspace. Furthermore, EASA pointed to the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as a factor that could lead to military activity impacting Lebanese airspace.

In addition to the specific warnings for Iraq and Lebanon, EASA urged all operators to exercise caution and consider potential risks when flying within the airspace of Bahrain, Kuwait, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claimed that American planes could safely fly over Tehran, stating that "Nothing will happen." He also noted that 19 million barrels of oil had passed through the Strait of Hormuz the previous day, which he described as the largest amount in its history.