Iran Resumes Flight Operations Early Amid Rising Tensions with Israel

Flight operations across Iran resumed earlier than initially announced, after the Civil Aviation Organisation confirmed safe conditions, according to state media reports on Monday. The earlier restrictions, which were set to last from 9 pm Sunday until 6 am Monday, were lifted six hours ahead of schedule. Flights had been temporarily halted due to what authorities described as “operational restrictions,” though no specific details were provided.

This precautionary flight ban coincided with heightened regional tensions, particularly between Iran and Israel, as both countries continue to engage in a war of threats and retaliatory strikes. The move came on the first anniversary of the October 7 Hamas attacks, when the Gaza-based militant group launched a series of unprecedented armed incursions into southern Israel, leading to escalated conflict in the region.

Iran had already imposed flight restrictions earlier, on October 1, following its missile strikes on Israel. These strikes were carried out in retaliation for the killing of commanders belonging to Iran’s proxy forces, including the high-profile death of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut. Israel responded by declaring that Iran would “pay for it,” further stoking fears of continued conflict.

Iran’s decision to launch missile strikes was viewed as a response to a series of sophisticated attacks by Israeli intelligence forces, which targeted Hezbollah communications, killing over 550 people and dealing a significant blow to the group. This was followed by the airstrike that killed Nasrallah, a major figure in Iran’s regional influence through proxy forces.

Israel has since declared all options for retaliation remain on the table, with Israeli Defense Minister warning Iran of impending consequences for its actions. As tensions remain high and the possibility of further escalation looms, regional observers are closely watching the developments.

Though flights in Iran have resumed, the situation remains tense, with both Iran and Israel maintaining a posture of readiness for further confrontation.