Kuwait Resumes Flight Operations After Lifting Airspace Restrictions

Kuwait has lifted its airspace restrictions and resumed normal flight operations after a temporary closure due to heightened regional security tensions. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed that air traffic has returned to normal, with airlines operating on approved schedules. This decision follows a series of escalating tensions in the region, particularly after recent U.S. strikes on Iran, which prompted retaliatory actions from Iranian forces. Kuwait condemned these attacks as violations of its sovereignty and security, emphasizing the need for regional stability. The situation remains closely monitored by authorities to ensure safety in the airspace.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 11, 2026, 17:17 IST

Kuwait Reopens Airspace Amid Regional Tensions

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Kuwait City, June 11: On Thursday, Kuwait reopened its airspace and resumed regular flight operations after lifting the precautionary measures that had been put in place due to increased regional security concerns.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced that air traffic in Kuwait's airspace had returned to normal following the resolution of the issues that led to the temporary closure.

According to a statement from the DGCA, operations at Kuwait International Airport have resumed according to the approved flight schedules, with airlines returning to their standard services, as reported by a news agency.

The authority emphasized that it is continuously monitoring the situation in collaboration with relevant domestic and international bodies to maintain the highest safety and security standards in the nation's airspace.

Earlier on Thursday, Kuwait had temporarily closed its airspace and redirected flights. The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Army reported that air defense systems were intercepting hostile aerial threats to safeguard the country's airspace and critical infrastructure.

This situation arose amid escalating tensions in the region following new U.S. strikes on Iran, which prompted retaliatory attacks by Iranian forces against U.S. military installations in the area.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran announced on Thursday that it had targeted 18 U.S. military sites in various Middle Eastern nations, including airbases in Kuwait and Bahrain, in retaliation for the recent U.S. strikes.

Kuwait condemned what it termed a renewed attack on its territory, labeling it a dangerous escalation that jeopardizes civilian lives and essential infrastructure. Iran, on the other hand, stated that its operations were aimed at U.S. military facilities.

On June 6, both Kuwait and Bahrain expressed their condemnation of the renewed Iranian attacks, describing them as a blatant violation of sovereignty and a serious escalation that threatens regional stability.

Kuwait's Foreign Ministry stated on social media that the attacks represented a "flagrant violation" of its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, as well as a breach of international law, the UN Charter, and Security Council Resolution 2817.

The ministry added that the ongoing attacks signify a dangerous escalation at a time when global efforts are aimed at preventing a broader regional conflict.

It asserted, "The attacks cannot be justified or accepted under any circumstances."

Bahrain's Foreign Ministry also issued a statement indicating that the attacks threaten the security and stability of the Gulf region.

It urged Iran to cease its attacks, fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions, and respect the freedom of maritime navigation in accordance with international law.

Previously, both Kuwait and Bahrain reported intercepting missile and drone attacks, while the IRGC confirmed its strikes on the Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait and the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, as retaliation for earlier U.S. attacks on Qeshm Island and Sirik County in southern Iran.