The world is on high alert as tensions between Israel and Iran escalate into a full-scale confrontation. The situation, described by experts as one of the most dangerous military escalations in West Asia in recent years, is now having serious international consequences, including direct impacts on India-bound flights and the global aviation network.
Israel Strikes Tehran: War Escalates
In the early hours of Friday, Israel launched an airstrike targeting key Iranian military and suspected nuclear sites in Tehran. Multiple explosions were reported in different parts of the Iranian capital. This aggressive move comes after weeks of growing tension, with cross-border threats and military posturing from both sides.
Following the attack, Tehran International Airport was shut down, and regional airspace has now become a high-risk zone. Airlines around the world have begun rerouting or suspending flights passing through Iranian and Iraqi airspace.
Impact on India: Air India Flights Diverted, Delays and Cancellations Reported
India is already feeling the ripple effects of the Israel-Iran War. Several Air India international flights have been either diverted mid-air or returned to their departure airports due to security concerns over West Asian airspace.
Diverted Flights:
AI130 – London Heathrow to Mumbai → Diverted to Vienna
AI102 – New York to Delhi → Diverted to Sharjah
AI116 – New York to Mumbai → Diverted to Jeddah
AI2018 – London Heathrow to Delhi → Diverted to Mumbai
AI188 – Vancouver to Delhi → Diverted to Jeddah
AI101 – Delhi to New York → Diverted to Frankfurt/Milan
AI126 – Chicago to Delhi → Diverted to Jeddah
AI132 – London Heathrow to Bengaluru → Diverted to Sharjah
AI2016 – London Heathrow to Delhi → Diverted to Vienna
AI104 – Washington to Delhi → Diverted to Vienna
AI190 – Toronto to Delhi → Diverted to Frankfurt
Flights Returned to Origin:
AI129 – Mumbai to London Heathrow → Returned to Mumbai
AI119 – Mumbai to New York → Returned to Mumbai
AI103 – Delhi to Washington → Returned to Delhi
AI106 – Newark to Delhi → Returned to Delhi
AI189 – Delhi to Toronto → Returned to Delhi
Delhi Airport Issues Advisory
In response to the growing uncertainty, the Delhi International Airport (DEL) issued a passenger advisory at 8:10 AM on Friday. While airport operations are continuing normally, the advisory warned that due to changing geopolitical developments in Iran, Iraq, and nearby regions, some international flight schedules could be disrupted. Delays, diversions, or cancellations are now likely.
Passengers have been urged to stay in touch with their respective airlines for real-time updates and avoid relying on unverified sources to prevent confusion.
Passenger Advisory issued at 08:10 Hours#DelhiAirport #PassengerAdvisory #DELAdvisory pic.twitter.com/rUGTtG03QH
— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) June 13, 2025
Indian Government Issues Travel Warning
Amid the escalating Israel-Iran War, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India has issued a strong travel advisory for Indian citizens. The ministry has recommended avoiding all non-essential travel to both Israel and Iran until further notice.
“We are deeply concerned by the recent developments in the region. We are monitoring the evolving situation, including reports of attacks on nuclear sites. We urge both parties to exercise restraint and resolve issues through dialogue,” said the MEA in an official statement.
Our statement on the situation between Iran and Israel:
🔗 https://t.co/DLkvRfheSq pic.twitter.com/MP8KuGhFO5
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) June 13, 2025
Indian Embassies in Iran and Israel on High Alert
Indian embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv have been actively engaging with the Indian diaspora in both countries. Indian nationals have been advised to:
Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary movement
Follow local security guidelines
Register themselves with the nearest Indian mission
Stay updated via the official embassy social media accounts
Former Indian Ambassador K.P. Fabian commented on the situation:
“It’s a war zone now. An airstrike doesn’t differentiate between civilian and military targets. Indian citizens must take the situation very seriously.”
Geopolitical Stakes for India
India shares strong diplomatic and economic ties with both Iran and Israel, and has carefully maintained neutrality in past conflicts. However, this war could challenge India’s balancing act.
Israel is a major defense and technology partner for India.
Iran plays a crucial role in energy supplies and regional connectivity, especially via the Chabahar Port project.
India has offered to mediate or assist in de-escalation efforts, showing its commitment to regional peace and stability.
Airspace Closure: A Global Aviation Crisis in the Making?
The closure of Iranian and Iraqi airspace could cause a significant bottleneck in the global aviation sector. Many flight routes connecting Europe, North America, and Asia pass through this corridor. Rerouting these flights increases fuel consumption, costs, and travel time.
Aviation experts believe that if the war continues, flight insurance premiums may surge, and airline timetables worldwide could be thrown into chaos.
Conclusion: A Global Crisis with Local Consequences
The unfolding Israel-Iran War is not just a regional issue — its impact is being felt across the world, from the Middle East to India’s busiest international airports. With dozens of flights rerouted or canceled, and the safety of Indian citizens abroad at stake, the need for diplomatic resolution has never been more urgent.
India continues to advocate for peaceful negotiations while ensuring the safety of its citizens and the stability of its air corridors. As tensions grow, the international community watches closely, hoping that diplomacy prevails over war.
Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available reports, news sources, and official advisories as of the date of publication. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, the situation in the Middle East is rapidly evolving, and new developments may occur. Readers are advised to consult official government channels, embassies, and airlines for the most current and reliable updates. The author and publisher of this blog are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided herein.
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