Qatar included in renewed EU aviation warning amid regional hostilities

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has strengthened its aviation warning for airlines operating in parts of the Gulf, urging them to avoid the airspace of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and the Gulf of Oman as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate. The updated Conflict Zone Information Bulletin, issued on Tuesday, remains valid until July 29 and replaces last week's advisory, which only recommended caution.

Why the Advisory Was Updated

EASA said the increased military activity in the region poses a greater threat to civil aviation due to the presence of major U.S. military bases and the possibility of missile or drone attacks. The agency also warned that civilian aircraft could be mistakenly identified by air defence systems.

Key highlights:

• Airlines are advised to avoid airspace over parts of the Gulf.

• Advisory is valid until July 29.

• Increased risk from missile, drone attacks, and air defence activity.

Recent Escalation Raises Safety Concerns

The updated warning follows Iran's recent ballistic missile attack targeting Qatar, during which Qatari air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles over Doha. Authorities confirmed injuries caused by falling debris. Similar attacks have also affected Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

EASA has also extended its advisory against flights over Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon until the end of August and said it will continue monitoring the security situation before issuing further updates.