The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a formal advisory urging all commercial airlines to avoid Iranian airspace due to escalating military tensions and heightened alert status of Iranian defense systems. This precautionary measure follows heightened security concerns stemming from recent U.S. military threats against Iran.
The aviation regulator specifically cited increased risks of misidentification and accidental engagement with civilian aircraft due to Iran’s activated air defense systems. EASA’s warning emphasized that the combination of advanced weapon systems, unpredictable state responses, and potential activation of surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems creates substantial danger to civil aviation operations at all altitudes.
This security alert originates from recent civil unrest in Iran that began on December 28, initially triggered by economic protests that evolved into one of the most significant challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership since the 1979 revolution. According to Norway-based Iran Human Rights, the conflict has resulted in at least 3,428 protester fatalities and over 10,000 arrests, though these figures represent conservative estimates.
The international tension peaked when the United States threatened military intervention if Iran proceeded with planned executions of arrested protesters. Although Washington has subsequently moderated its stance following warnings from Gulf allies about potential regional escalation, U.S. officials maintained that “all options remain on the table” as of Thursday.
In a notable development, U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged Iran’s decision to cancel scheduled executions, thanking Tehran for heeding warnings about “serious consequences” should the crackdown on protesters continue. This diplomatic exchange suggests ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations despite public posturing from both nations.