Air India Diverts 16 Flights Amid Iran Airspace Closure After Israeli Strikes

Following a significant Israeli military strike on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, Iran closed its airspace, prompting Air India to divert or return at least 16 international flights for passenger safety. The affected flights, which connect India to major global cities including New York, London, Toronto, and Washington, were rerouted to alternate hubs such as Vienna, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Frankfurt, or returned to their origin. Air India expressed regret for the inconvenience and is facilitating accommodations, full refunds, complimentary rescheduling, and alternative travel arrangements for affected passengers. The closure of Iranian airspace, a critical corridor for west-bound flights, has forced airlines to find safer routes over the Arabian Sea and the Mediterranean. The incident follows Israel's "Operation Rising Lion," described as a significant attack on Iran's nuclear sites, which resulted in the deaths of prominent Iranian military and nuclear figures and escalated tensions in the region. Iran's Supreme Leader condemned the strikes and vowed severe retaliation, raising concerns of a broader regional conflict.