Iraq denies airport closure amid Iran tensions
Desk Report
| Published: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
File photo
Iraq firmly rejected reports Tuesday that it had suspended flights at Baghdad International Airport, dismissing concerns over a potential US military strike on Iran. Transport Ministry spokesperson Maytham Al-Safi stated that all allegations were baseless and operations remained unaffected.
"Air traffic is continuing to all destinations, including transit flights through Iraqi airspace, and there is no halt to flights at any of the country's airports," Al-Safi said through state news agency INA. He clarified that only one flight to Sulaymaniyah Airport faced cancellation due to adverse weather conditions, emphasising there was no official decision to suspend services.
Tensions have escalated following anti-government protests in neighbouring Iran that began late last month. US President Donald Trump announced he had cancelled meetings with Iranian officials whilst pledging support to demonstrators. Iranian authorities have countered by accusing Washington and Israel of orchestrating the unrest as "riots" and "terrorism."
Casualty figures remain unclear, though the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency estimates the death toll has surpassed 2,000, encompassing both security personnel and protesters. Baghdad's strategic position as a transit hub has made the airport a focal point amid regional instability.
Source: INA (Iraqi News Agency), HRANA (Human Rights Activists News Agency)