Hundreds of Israeli passengers were stranded on Sunday at King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, southern Jordan, following the suspension of flights operated by Israeli airline Arkia, according to reports by Israeli media.
Israeli Channel 12 aired footage showing large numbers of travelers gathered at the airport, awaiting updates on their travel arrangements after the unexpected disruption. The situation has added to growing travel uncertainties in the region as the ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel continues to impact aviation and cross-border movement.
As of the time of reporting, Jordanian authorities had not issued an official statement explaining the suspension of Arkia’s operations at the Aqaba airport. The lack of clarity has left affected passengers in limbo, with many unsure of when or how they would be able to continue their journeys.
The disruption comes against the backdrop of heightened security concerns and widespread airspace instability in the region. Israel recently shut down Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv due to ongoing missile and drone attacks launched by Iran in retaliation for joint US-Israeli airstrikes that began on February 28.
With Israel’s main international gateway closed, airlines have been forced to explore alternative routes and operational bases outside the country. Arkia, Israel’s second-largest airline, had announced plans to shift a significant portion of its operations to neighboring countries, including Jordan and Egypt, in a bid to maintain connectivity for Israeli travelers.
However, according to reports by Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth, the airline encountered obstacles in implementing this strategy, as Jordanian authorities reportedly blocked its planned operations. Israeli aviation officials told the publication that Arkia may be compelled to cancel all flights routed through Jordan if the restrictions persist.
In response to the challenges, Arkia issued a statement on Sunday indicating that it would redirect part of its operations to Taba Airport in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, subject to operational capacity and the necessary regulatory approvals. The move is seen as an attempt to mitigate the impact of the disruptions and provide alternative travel options for stranded passengers.
The evolving situation highlights the broader impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian infrastructure, particularly in the aviation sector. Air travel across the Middle East has faced significant disruptions, with airlines adjusting routes, suspending flights, or relocating operations in response to security risks.
According to Israeli data, nearly 29,429 people had exited the country by land, air, and sea as of March 13, following the escalation of hostilities with Iran. The figure underscores the scale of movement as residents and travelers seek to leave the country amid growing uncertainty.
The regional conflict, now entering its second month, has seen sustained military engagement between Iran and a US-Israeli alliance. Since February 28, airstrikes targeting Iranian positions have reportedly resulted in over 1,340 deaths, including that of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
In retaliation, Iran has launched waves of drone and missile attacks targeting Israeli territory, as well as locations in Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf countries hosting US military assets. These attacks have caused casualties, damaged infrastructure, and contributed to disruptions in key sectors such as aviation and global trade.
Analysts note that the suspension of Arkia flights in Jordan reflects the increasing complexity of operating in a conflict-affected region, where shifting security dynamics and political considerations can rapidly alter travel plans.
The absence of official communication from Jordanian authorities has further fueled speculation about the reasons behind the decision, though observers suggest it may be linked to broader security assessments or diplomatic sensitivities amid the escalating crisis.
For the stranded passengers in Aqaba, the immediate concern remains how to proceed with their travel plans. With limited options and ongoing uncertainty, many may be forced to wait for alternative arrangements or seek routes through other neighboring countries.
As the situation continues to evolve, airlines and governments across the region are expected to reassess their operational strategies in response to the rapidly changing security environment. Meanwhile, travelers are being advised to remain cautious and stay informed about developments that could affect their movements.
The incident at Aqaba Airport serves as another indication of how the ongoing conflict is extending beyond the battlefield, disrupting everyday life and complicating regional connectivity in unprecedented ways.
