Iran Closes Airspace Ahead of Planned Missile Launches as U.S. Imposes New Sanctions

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – Iran has issued a formal aviation warning ahead of what it described as “extensive missile launches,” closing broad sections of its southern airspace on Thursday amid mounting regional tensions.

According to an official Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), pilots have been instructed to avoid designated launch zones between 5:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Israel time. Data from the Federal Aviation Administration confirms that civilian air traffic will be restricted during the scheduled activity, forcing international carriers to reroute flights through the Persian Gulf region.

The move follows weeks of Iranian military drills, including exercises near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz — a narrow waterway through which a significant portion of the world’s energy supply passes. Recent maneuvers temporarily disrupted maritime traffic, heightening concerns in Israel and Western capitals over whether the launches represent routine exercises or a signal of escalation.

The developments come as the United States announced new sanctions against 18 senior Iranian officials, accusing them of orchestrating violent crackdowns on protesters and restricting internet access during widespread demonstrations. The sanctions were implemented under the direction of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to the State Department.

U.S. officials said the visa restrictions, which also apply to family members, are part of a broader effort to hold Tehran accountable for human rights abuses. The department noted that 58 individuals have now been targeted under the policy, emphasizing that Washington continues to support the Iranian people’s right to freedom of expression — a position repeatedly affirmed by President Donald Trump.

With missile warnings issued and sanctions expanding, analysts say the coming days will test whether the region moves toward de-escalation — or deeper confrontation.

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