As Trump eyes possible Iran exit strategy, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey push for restraint
Iran’s airspace has reopened after a brief closure as Trump softens rhetoric on military action, while authorities report a slowdown in anti-regime protests amid a nationwide internet blackout and a harsh crackdown.
Iran’s airspace reopened Thursday after a temporary closure the day before, as US President Donald Trump appeared to ease rhetoric around an imminent attack against the country over the violent crackdown unleashed against nationwide anti-regime protests.
The Iranian Civil Aviation Organization said in a Thursday morning statement cited by state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) that the airspace was now open to all transit, incoming and outgoing flights, with airports resuming full passenger services.
Normal flight status in the West Asia region, 10:51UTC.#Iran pic.twitter.com/zCj21er3tI
— IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) (@iribnews_irib) January 15, 2026
Iran issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) closing its airspace to all flights from 1:45 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. Thursday local time (10:15 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. GMT) allowing only international civil arrivals and departures with prior authorization from the country’s Civil Aviation Authority.
The NOTAM came amid anticipation of possible US military action against Iran, as Trump repeatedly threatened to strike the country if the killings of protesters continued. Reuters reported Thursday that some personnel who had been temporarily withdrawn from Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Wednesday have begun returning to the base.
