US–Israel offensive on Iran grounds flights, Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim stuck in Jeddah

Mushfiqur Rahim has found himself stranded in Jeddah after escalating tensions in the Middle East forced widespread airspace closures, disrupting thousands of international flights.

The Bangladesh veteran had travelled to Makkah to perform Umrah and was returning home to Dhaka via Dubai when his journey was abruptly halted. Emirates flight EK0806, bound for Dubai, was reportedly turned back mid-air to Jeddah as authorities shut sections of regional airspace following heightened military tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Sharing an update from the airport, Mushfiqur said he had successfully completed his pilgrimage but was now stuck along with thousands of other passengers.

“I came to Makkah a few days ago to perform Umrah and was able to complete it. I was heading back to Bangladesh via Dubai this morning, but due to the ongoing conflict, all flights were turned back to Jeddah mid-air. I am now stranded at Jeddah airport with many other passengers, including fellow Bangladeshis,” he said.

Massive disruption across Gulf airspace

Air travel across key Middle Eastern transit hubs has been severely impacted, with several airlines suspending or rerouting flights as a precaution. Major Gulf airports — particularly Dubai — serve as vital connecting points for travellers moving between Asia, Europe and Africa, amplifying the scale of disruption.

Airlines have urged passengers to check flight statuses before departing for airports, with many offering rebooking waivers and flexible travel arrangements for those affected.

ICC activates contingency plans amid T20 World Cup

The travel turmoil has also cast uncertainty over the concluding phase of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, currently underway in India and Sri Lanka. With the tournament nearing its March 8 finale, players, officials, broadcast crews and event staff — many of whom depend on Gulf transit hubs — could face delays in their return journeys.

The International Cricket Council confirmed that its travel and logistics teams are working to coordinate alternative arrangements to ensure the safe departure of all stakeholders once the event concludes.

Authorities and airlines continue to monitor the evolving situation, while passengers have been advised to stay updated through official channels before making travel plans.