BAGHDAD, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Iraq's national carrier, the Iraqi Airways, announced on Monday the suspension of all flights to the Lebanese capital Beirut, citing regional security conditions.
In a statement, the airline noted that the decision was a precautionary measure taken to ensure passenger safety amid the prevailing security situation in the region.
The statement said that the airline will resume operations and announce new flight schedules through its official channels once approvals are granted by relevant authorities.
An Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity that the suspension was prompted by intensified Israeli airstrikes near Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport, which poses significant risks to aviation.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Monday vowed to turn the area of southern Lebanon's Litani River into a military-controlled zone, and to continue striking Beirut until Hezbollah stops attacks.
On Monday night, U.S. President Donald Trump said Israel and Hezbollah have agreed to dial back hostilities following his separate calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hezbollah representatives. ■
