EgyptAir stops main Middle East routes

(MENAFN) EgyptAir has announced the suspension of several key regional flight routes due to escalating security concerns in the Middle East. The move comes as tensions between Israel and Iran intensify, following Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets, including a uranium facility in Natanz and the assassination of high-ranking Iranian military officials and scientists. Iran responded with a barrage of ballistic missile attacks on Israeli territory, prompting ongoing retaliatory exchanges.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Egypt’s national airline confirmed it was halting services to Beirut, Amman, Baghdad, and Erbil, citing the safety of passengers and crew. Flights will remain suspended until regional conditions improve.

“Given the current developments in the region and to protect its customers, EgyptAir is suspending flights to Beirut, Amman, Baghdad, and Erbil airports until further notice,” the airline said.

Other regional carriers are also adjusting their operations in response to the conflict. Ethiopian Airlines announced it would suspend flights between Addis Ababa and Tel Aviv through June 22, 2025.

Meanwhile, Russia’s embassy in Egypt issued a travel warning for its nationals visiting the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, advising them to remain cautious. The embassy noted that the city lies just 190 kilometers from the Israeli border. According to the Russian Union of the Tourism Industry, there are currently as many as 55,000 Russian tourists in Egypt.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned Israel’s airstrikes, labeling them a “serious and dangerous escalation” and a clear breach of international law and the UN Charter.

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