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Etihad grounds more flights amid surging Israel-Iran tensions

Etihad Airways has extended flight cancellations and rerouted multiple services across the Middle East as regional tensions escalate following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Dubai: The UAE’s national carrier confirmed widespread disruptions across its network, citing instability and airspace closures in parts of the region. Flights over Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Israel are now being diverted over safer corridors such as the Caspian Sea, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, according to flight tracking platform FlightRadar24.

One of the most significant service changes is the suspension of all Etihad flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv until July 15, inclusive. The airline clarified that passengers transiting through Abu Dhabi to connect to Tel Aviv-bound flights will not be allowed to board at their original departure point.

In a statement, Etihad said it is actively assisting affected passengers with alternative travel arrangements and warned that “this remains a rapidly evolving situation,” with potential for sudden airspace closures and further schedule changes.

Separately, Etihad flight EY652 from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi, scheduled for June 22, was cancelled due to a technical issue unrelated to the regional unrest. The airline apologised for the inconvenience and is offering support to impacted travellers.

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