Israel Closes Airspace After Striking Iran, Declares State of Emergency
Israel has closed its airspace to civilian flights following what it termed a “preliminary strike” against Iran. Tel Aviv has also declared a state of emergency nationwide.
“Following security developments, the Minister of Transportation has instructed the Director of the Civil Aviation Authority to close the State of Israel’s airspace to civilian flights,” announced Israeli Transportation Minister Miri Regev, according to AFP on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Prior to the airspace closure, the Israeli Defense Ministry announced that its forces had launched a “preliminary strike” against Iran.
Heightened Alert Levels Across Israel
Israeli authorities have declared a state of emergency throughout the country following the strike. Sirens sounded in the Jerusalem area, and various regions of Israel received warnings about a “very serious threat.”
“The State of Israel has launched a preliminary strike against Iran,” the Israeli Defense Ministry stated.
“Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has declared a special state of emergency throughout the country,” the statement added.
Reports of Explosions in Tehran
Reports from AFP correspondents indicate that two loud explosions were heard in Tehran, the capital of Iran, on Saturday morning. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising in the central and eastern areas of Tehran.
Iranian Reports and Lack of Official Confirmation
Iran’s Fars news agency reported that the explosions were caused by missile strikes. “The type of explosion indicates that this was a missile attack,” Fars reported, without providing further details.
As of this reporting, there has been no official statement from Iranian authorities regarding the latest Israeli strike.
Miri Regev’s Role in the Crisis Response
Transportation Minister Miri Regev, a former Brigadier General in the Israel Defense Forces and previously Minister of Culture and Sport, played a central role in enacting the immediate response, specifically the closure of Israeli airspace. Her background in the military suggests a preparedness for rapid decision-making during security crises.
Potential Implications for Regional Stability
This escalation marks a significant shift in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran. The closure of airspace and declaration of a state of emergency indicate a high level of alert and preparedness for potential retaliatory actions. The Hostages Forum has requested increased train service to Tel Aviv in anticipation of large protests calling for a ceasefire-hostage deal, highlighting the domestic impact of the escalating conflict.
Regev’s Political Stance and Vision
Miri Regev is known for her strong stance on national security and her advocacy for Israel’s periphery regions. She champions a Jewish state and working people, often critiquing the Tel Aviv elite and rising inequality. She identifies strongly with her Mizrachi identity.
Recent Threats and Cyberattacks
Recent events, including threats and insults directed at Minister Regev from Turkish phone numbers following a hacking incident, underscore the complex geopolitical landscape and the increasing prevalence of cyber warfare as a component of international conflict.
FAQ
- What caused Israel to close its airspace? Israel closed its airspace following a “preliminary strike” against Iran.
- What is the current state of alert in Israel? A state of emergency has been declared throughout Israel.
- What reports are coming from Tehran? Reports indicate two loud explosions were heard in Tehran, with smoke seen rising in the city.
- Who is Miri Regev? Miri Regev is the current Israeli Minister of Transport, National Infrastructure and Road Safety.
Did you know? Miri Regev had an extensive military career, rising to the rank of Brigadier General and serving as the IDF Spokeswoman.
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