KLM Cancels Tel Aviv and Gulf Flights as Middle East Tensions Rise

Dutch airline KLM has abruptly canceled two overnight flights to Tel Aviv that were scheduled for Friday and Saturday, according to a report by Israel’s Channel 12, as regional tensions continue to escalate.

The broadcaster said the airline has also decided to cancel upcoming flights to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. KLM has not issued an official statement explaining the reasons for the cancellations or how long the decision will remain in effect.

The move comes amid growing concern among international carriers over security risks in the Middle East. Germany’s Lufthansa Group announced last week that it had restricted flights to the region, citing fears of a possible escalation between the United States and Iran.

Tensions have been rising sharply since nationwide protests erupted across Iran in late December, driven by worsening economic conditions and public dissatisfaction. Pressure from the United States and Israel on Tehran has intensified during this period, with senior officials in both countries making statements that suggest a desire to see an end to Iran’s current political system, which has been in place since 1979.

In a separate report, Israel’s public broadcaster KAN said last week that Israeli assessments indicate the United States could launch an on Iran in the coming days, further heightening uncertainty and anxiety across the region.