Iran–US tension lingers after Tehran reopened its airspace following a temporary shutdown sparked by mounting threats, diplomatic strain, and widespread protests shaking the country’s political stability.
Iran’s aviation authority lifted restrictions imposed late Wednesday, allowing flights to resume after nearly five hours of disruption caused by heightened security concerns nationwide.
Tracking data showed domestic carriers were among the first to cross Iranian skies, suggesting authorities were eager to restore calm and reassure international partners.
Officials had earlier restricted all flights except approved international arrivals and departures, citing fears of potential military escalation in the region.
The closure followed intensified rhetoric from Washington, prompting speculation over possible retaliatory actions amid Iran’s internal unrest and diplomatic standoff.
Protests erupted earlier this month after Iran’s currency plunged to record lows, worsening already dire economic conditions for millions of citizens.
Demonstrations quickly spread across major cities, with shopkeepers, workers, and students voicing frustration over inflation, unemployment, and living costs.
Security forces responded forcefully, leading to clashes that resulted in civilian deaths and injuries, according to rights organisations.
Funerals were held across Iran for both civilians and security personnel killed during the unrest, further deepening national grief and anger.
State media acknowledged fatalities, marking a rare admission amid mounting international pressure and scrutiny.
A US-based human rights group claimed the death toll surpassed 2,000, describing the violence as “unprecedented in scale.”
Amnesty International said it reviewed evidence of mass unlawful killings, mostly involving peaceful protesters and bystanders.
“The world cannot ignore what is happening,” an Amnesty spokesperson said, calling for independent investigations.
Iranian authorities rejected accusations of systematic abuse, insisting security forces acted to protect national stability.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei earlier described demonstrators as “rioters,” accusing foreign powers of exploiting economic grievances.
He warned that unrest threatened Iran’s sovereignty, urging citizens to reject what he called external manipulation.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian later struck a softer tone, admitting public demands must be heard amid worsening economic hardship.
“The people’s concerns are real,” Pezeshkian said, promising reforms to address inflation and unemployment.
Meanwhile, nationwide internet restrictions imposed on January 8 severely limited access to information and communication platforms.
France said it was exploring ways to help restore connectivity by sending Eutelsat satellite terminals to Iran.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told lawmakers, “We are examining all options to support free access to information.”
The proposal drew sharp criticism from Tehran, which views such efforts as foreign interference.
Iranian officials defended the blackout as a security measure designed to prevent misinformation and coordination of violence.
International observers, however, described the shutdown as collective punishment against protesters.
Tensions escalated further after US President Donald Trump issued warnings over alleged killings of demonstrators.
Trump claimed he was informed executions had been halted, adding that Washington was monitoring events closely.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed claims of planned executions, saying “hanging is out of the question.”
“There is no such policy,” Araghchi stated during an interview, seeking to counter international alarm.
Despite reassurances, Trump’s remarks triggered retaliatory warnings from Iranian military officials.
Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh said Iran would defend itself “with full force” if attacked.
The United States subsequently withdrew some personnel from the Al Udeid airbase in Qatar.
Qatari authorities confirmed the move, citing “current regional tensions” and precautionary measures.
Military analysts said the drawdown fuelled speculation but did not indicate imminent conflict.
David Des Roches of the Thayer Marshall Institute noted no major military assets had moved into position.
“In the absence of carriers or bomber deployments, a large-scale attack appears unlikely,” he sai.
He added that limited missile strikes were technically possible but strategically constrained.
Regional governments closely monitored developments, fearing spillover effects across the Middle East.
Oil markets reacted cautiously, reflecting uncertainty without signs of immediate supply disruption.
Diplomatic channels between Tehran and Washington remain largely frozen, with indirect messages dominating communication.
G7 foreign ministers expressed deep concern over reported deaths, threatening further sanctions.
In a joint statement, they urged Iran to respect human rights and de-escalate tensions.
Iran accused Western nations of hypocrisy, arguing similar crackdowns elsewhere receive muted responses.
State commentators framed protests as part of a broader geopolitical campaign against Tehran.
As air traffic normalised, uncertainty persisted on the ground, with security forces maintaining a heavy presence.
For many Iranians, reopening airspace offered little relief from daily economic and political pressures.
One Tehran resident told local media, “Flights may return, but our problems remain unresolved.”
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With protests ongoing and diplomacy strained, the situation remains volatile despite signs of operational normalcy.
