Washington, United States. Major international carriers including Lufthansa, Air France, and Air Canada have suspended flights to several Middle East destinations, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, citing concerns over a potential direct confrontation between the United States and Iran.
The cancellations began on Friday evening following a warning from US President Donald Trump that a naval “armada” is steaming toward the region.
Airlines and regulators respond to airspace risk
The aviation sector reacted to what was described as a “hazardous situation” in Iranian and surrounding airspace. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and several national regulators issued emergency warnings.
US military deployment and stated purpose
US officials said the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and several guided-missile destroyers are expected to reach the Arabian Sea within days, expanding military options for the White House. The Trump administration indicated the deployment is intended primarily as a deterrent.
Trump comments and recent history
Speaking from Air Force One after the Davos summit, Trump reiterated a “nuclear red line,” saying any attempt by Tehran to restart its enrichment programme would be met with force that would “make what we did in June look like peanuts.”
The escalation follows military action in June 2025 during a 12-day war in which Israeli and American forces struck Iranian military and nuclear installations. During that conflict, US B-2 bombers used bunker-buster munitions against the Fordow underground site.
Focus of concerns
The situation has raised concerns about a possible US strike on Tehran, including targeting nuclear infrastructure, and comes amid reports of a violent crackdown on domestic protests that has reportedly left more than 4,500 people dead.
How will the flight suspensions affect your travel plans to the Middle East?