KRG Mobilizes to Repatriate Stranded Citizens Amid Regional Airspace Closure
KRG forms special task force to help stranded citizens return home after Iraqi airspace closure halts flights. Affected travelers include Hajj pilgrims stuck abroad. Authorities pledge swift action to ensure safe repatriation.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has announced the formation of a special task force to facilitate the return of its stranded citizens after the closure of Iraqi airspace disrupted travel across the region.
In a statement released by the Department of Foreign Relations, the KRG confirmed that all flights in and out of Iraq had been suspended due to heightened regional tensions, creating serious complications for Kurdistan Region travelers transiting through Istanbul and other international airports.
Among those impacted are several pilgrims returning from the Hajj pilgrimage, who have found themselves unable to proceed from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman.
In response, the KRG has launched a coordinated effort involving the Department of Foreign Relations and the Ministry of Interior to liaise with affected citizens and relevant authorities in the countries where travelers are currently stranded.
The government emphasized its commitment to ensuring the swift and safe return of its citizens, stating that arrangements are underway to implement the necessary procedures without delay.
“The Kurdistan Regional Government considers it a fundamental duty to support its citizens in times of crisis,” the statement read. “Just as we acted during the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergency situations, we are doing everything possible to bring our people home.”
The KRG continues to monitor the situation closely and urges citizens affected by the disruption to remain in contact with official representatives abroad.
