Iran partially reopens airspace, restores airport operations

Iran announced the partial reopening of its airspace, along with the reopening of several airports, as of 0330GMT on Saturday. International flights are now allowed to transit through the eastern part of Iran's airspace, the Civil Aviation Organization said, as cited by the semi-official Mehr News Agency.

Gradual restoration

Flight operations at airports across the country will be progressively restored, depending on the technical and operational readiness of both military and civilian authorities, in order to resume passenger services for the public, it added.

Conflict context

On Feb. 28, the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran, and Tehran retaliated with strikes on Israel and other regional countries hosting US assets. The war has been on hold since April 8, when Pakistan mediated a two-week ceasefire. Washington and Tehran held talks in Pakistan last weekend towards a lasting peace, and efforts for another session in Islamabad are underway.

US blockade remains

Despite the airspace reopening, a US naval blockade on Iranian ports remains in effect, with CENTCOM reporting that 21 vessels have been turned back since the blockade began. President Trump has warned that the blockade will remain until a peace deal is signed.

Ceasefire expiration

The two-week ceasefire mediated by Pakistan is set to expire on April 22. Trump has left the door open to renewed strikes if no deal is reached, warning that the US will retrieve Iran's nuclear dust by force if necessary.