Baghdad Airport under heavy security as Middle East tensions escalate
The source told al-Hurra that a significant security presence is being maintained in the airport vicinity and surrounding areas of the Iraqi capital.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Iraqi security forces have intensified their presence around Baghdad International Airport, according to a security source.
The deployment, which began last night, caused delayed landing of most incoming flights, leaving many planes unable to land on time.
The source told al-Hurra that a significant security presence is being maintained in the airport vicinity and surrounding areas of the Iraqi capital.
Additionally, the landing of most flights has been postponed, fueling speculation about the impact of regional instability.
This heightened security comes amid growing tensions in the Middle East. The escalation follows missile attacks launched by Iran in recent days, and there is anticipation of an Israeli response. In Lebanon, the situation is worsening due to continued Israeli air raids, adding to the regional turmoil.
On Saturday, Major General Yahya Rasool, spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces, confirmed that Iraq has taken comprehensive measures to secure its airspace.
Read More: Iraq strengthens air defense capabilities, secures borders, says military spox
He emphasized the country’s ability to monitor and track both incoming and outgoing aircraft, underscoring Iraq's preparedness amid the growing regional instability.
Rasool stated that Iraq's air capabilities, including advanced Korean F-16 and K-50 aircraft, along with reconnaissance and air transport planes, are crucial for safeguarding the nation's sovereignty.
He also reassured that Iraqi borders, particularly with Syria, are well-secured with the aid of border forces, thermal cameras, and surveillance equipment.
"Iraqi army units are stationed behind the borders, supported by border guard forces conducting intelligence-driven, preemptive operations," Rasool added.
The regional crisis escalated further when Iran reportedly fired more than 180 ballistic missiles at Israel, claiming it was retaliation for the deaths of Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah and Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Ismail Haniyeh.
The unfolding situation continues to strain Iraq’s stability, prompting stringent security measures across the country.