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Numerous Kazakhstani travelers found themselves stranded at Dubai International Airport as flights to Almaty and Astana were abruptly halted. The disruptions stem from the closure of regional airspace، significantly impacting travel plans for passengers.

Airport Conditions and Passenger Impact

One passenger reported that many families، including children، were left stranded in the airport. Due to the airport's operational status، passengers were compelled to return to the city and arrange for hotel accommodations، as they were no longer permitted inside the terminal.

Airline Responses and Flight Status

Air Astana confirmed that several flights to the Middle East were affected. Specifically، flights from Almaty to Medina، Dubai، and Doha، as well as Astana to Dubai، were turned back. The Almaty-Dubai route was diverted to Delhi. FlyArystan's Aktau-Dubai flight was rerouted to an alternate airfield. All other flights to the Middle East have been suspended until February 28.

Airlines have established hotlines to assist affected passengers. Air Astana and FlyArystan are providing support through dedicated channels.

Regional Geopolitical Context

The flight disruptions occurred amidst escalating regional tensions. Reports indicated that the United States initiated a large-scale military operation against Iran، following an alleged preemptive strike by Israel on Iran. Explosions were reported in Iran's capital، Tehran، prompting retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israeli and US bases in the Middle East.