Iraq has reopened its air routes with Kuwait after a temporary suspension caused by recent regional security developments and heightened tensions, the Iraqi Ministry of Transport announced.

According to the ministry, the new flight arrangements took effect at 14:00 local time (11:00 UTC) on Thursday following operational agreements reached under the supervision of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and in coordination with Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

The ministry said air traffic would be managed through designated routes and flight levels to ensure safe aircraft separation and operational coordination. The new procedures will be introduced gradually and remain subject to continuous monitoring and evaluation to maintain the safety and security of Iraqi airspace.

Regional coordination

Iraqi officials described the move as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, improve air navigation management and enhance connectivity between regional air routes. Authorities said technical and operational coordination with the participating countries would continue during the implementation phase.

The reopening comes as the region continues to face heightened instability, including tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and the ongoing escalation between the Saudi-led coalition and Yemen's Ensarullah movement. Regional security concerns have disrupted aviation operations several times in recent months, prompting countries to adjust flight routes and airspace management measures.(ILKHA)