Iraq extends airspace closure for 72 hours

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Civil Aviation Authority on Saturday extended the closure of the country’s airspace to all incoming, outgoing, and transit flights for an additional 72 hours.The authority said the extension takes effect from 12:00 p.m. local time (09:00 GMT) and will remain in place until 12:00 p.m. Tuesday as a precautionary measure.The decision is based on ongoing assessments of the security situation and regional developments, the authority said, adding that it will be reviewed in line with new developments.Airlines and relevant entities will be notified of any updates, it said.The move comes on the 29th day since Iraq first closed its airspace on Feb. 28 following the outbreak of the Israeli-US-Iran war, with the measure repeatedly extended amid continued escalation.