KRG Sets Up Emergency Coordination to Help Stranded Citizens Return Amid Regional Tensions

Peregraf

In response to the ongoing military escalation between Israel and Iran, which has led to the closure of several airports and disrupted air traffic across the region, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Interior has announced emergency measures to assist citizens stranded abroad.

A joint coordination room has been established by the Ministry of Interior and the Department of Foreign Relations to facilitate the return of Kurdish citizens affected by the crisis. The initiative comes amid widespread disruption in regional airspace, especially after Iran shut down several of its airports and neighboring countries began rerouting flights for security reasons. International carriers have also suspended or diverted routes that pass through Iranian or Israeli airspace.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of Interior called on stranded citizens to contact the Joint Crisis Coordination Center via WhatsApp at the following numbers:

+964 750 803 5680 or +964 750 803 5681, and to send their personal details to receive assistance.

The statement outlined several alternative return options:

1. Return via Turkey: With the support of Turkish authorities, Kurdish citizens holding Iraqi passports can fly to Istanbul or Sabiha International Airport without requiring a pre-issued visa. From there, they can continue their journey via domestic flights or by land to reach the Kurdistan Region through the Ibrahim Khalil International Border Crossing.

2. Visa Facilitation for Europe-based Citizens: Iraqis currently in European countries and holding Schengen visas can obtain a Turkish visa online or directly upon arrival at Turkish airports to proceed with their return.

3. Border Coordination: At Ibrahim Khalil and Haji Omeran international land ports, joint teams from the Foreign Relations Department and Ministry of Interior are on standby to provide expedited assistance for citizens entering Kurdistan by land from Turkey or Iran.

Airspace over much of the Middle East remains volatile due to fears of escalation. Iraq has reiterated its refusal to allow any party to use its airspace for military purposes, and precautionary closures in nearby countries have severely limited travel routes.

The KRG urges all citizens to remain calm and stay in contact with the coordination teams as the situation develops. Further updates will be issued as necessary.