Iran has closed its airspace to all flights except those with special permission for international routes, amid escalating tensions with the United States and ongoing anti-government protests. This decision took effect in the early hours of Thursday, January 15, 2024. According to the flight-tracking service FlightRadar24.com, the airspace closure was communicated through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that lasted for approximately two hours. Shortly before 04:00 local time, there were no aircraft detected over Iranian territory.
The protests in Iran began in December 2023, initially sparked by the country’s struggling economy. However, they have since intensified into widespread calls for the overthrow of the ruling Mullah regime, which has held power since 1979. Recent images from the demonstrations depict the streets of Tehran adorned with graffiti, while chants against the 86-year-old supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have been reported.
Despite facing violent crackdowns by security forces, demonstrators have continued to take to the streets. Reports indicate that the death toll from the nationwide unrest has reached at least 2,571, with over 18,100 individuals arrested, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. These figures are believed to be underreported, as the potential for further casualties rises with Iran’s threats of executing protesters.
Tensions between Iran and the United States have intensified as President Donald Trump has issued stern warnings regarding Iran’s treatment of demonstrators. Trump stated that should Iran “violently kill peaceful protesters,” the United States will be prepared to intervene. He emphasized that America is “locked and loaded and ready to go,” although he did not specify what actions might be taken.
In response to Trump’s comments, Iranian state television aired footage of a 2024 assassination attempt on him, accompanied by the ominous caption: “This time, the bullet won’t miss.” Trump’s administration has been closely monitoring the situation, with the American leader previously assuring the Iranian people that “HELP IS ON ITS WAY.”
The closure of Iranian airspace and the violent unrest within the country come at a critical juncture, as both nations navigate a complex web of geopolitical tensions. The international community continues to watch closely as events unfold in Iran, with potential implications for regional stability and diplomatic relations.
