Iran Denies Flight Restrictions Amid Israeli Threats

In the wake of Israel's declaration of retaliation to Saturday night's aerial bombardment, Iran Airports and Air Navigation Company denied any flight restrictions at Iranian airports.

Several Iranian news outlets reported that Iran's air defense was on high alert, suggesting potential flight restrictions due to Saturday night's Iranian bombardment of Israel with over 350 drones and missiles. However, authorities claim that all air routes across the country remain open.

On Monday evening, Israel's Military Chief of Staff, Herzi Halevi, confirmed that Israel would retaliate, though specifics of the response remain undisclosed. "This launch of so many missiles, cruise missiles, and drones into Israeli territory will be met with a response," Halevi said during a briefing at the Nevatim air base which had minor damage following the strike.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been actively consulting with his war cabinet, having convened meetings twice in less than 24 hours to discuss potential responses to Iran’s recent attack in which 99 percent of the projectiles were intercepted by Israel and its allies.

It was the first direct strike from Iranian soil to the Jewish state, bringing its shadow war into the forefront of the region's geopolitics. Two air bases were among the targets and one seven-year-old Bedouin girl remains in a critical condition from shrapnel injuries.

Iran launched the assault as a response to what it claims was an Israeli airstrike on its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1, emphasizing its intention to avoid further escalation.

The ongoing developments have stirred concerns among Iranians, many of whom are already grappling with economic challenges and increased socio-political restrictions following the protests which began in 2022.