Thousands Stranded Across Asia After Qatar Airspace Closes Amid Iran-US Tensions

Tensions in the Middle East following Iranian missile strikes on the US Al Udeid Air Base near Doha have led to the temporary closure of Qatar's airspace, severely disrupting commercial flights and leaving thousands of passengers stranded at airports including Doha, Hong Kong, Soekarno-Hatta in Indonesia, and Qatar itself. Qatar Airways canceled multiple flights, including those from Hong Kong and Doha, affecting hundreds of travelers who reported confusion, delayed communication, and lack of assistance from the airline during the crisis. Passengers described long waits, crowded terminals, and a shortage of staff to handle rebooking, with some flights being canceled even before the missile attacks amid escalating regional tensions. Qatar Airways has since resumed operations but warned that flight schedules would take several days to stabilize due to displaced aircraft and crew. The airline pledged to assist stranded passengers, though some affected travelers expressed frustration over the absence of compensation and clarity. The incident underscores the broader impact of geopolitical conflict on civilian air travel in the region, with no formal passenger rights protections in Qatar during such disruptions.