Direct flights between Iraq and Pakistan have officially resumed after an 86-day suspension caused by regional tensions linked to the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
According to officials, Iraqi Airways flight IA-409 arrived in Karachi from Baghdad at 4:53 AM, marking the restoration of direct air connectivity between the two countries.
Following the arrival, Iraqi Airways flight IA-410 later departed from Karachi to Baghdad at 7:14 AM with passengers onboard. Authorities said the last direct flight from Baghdad to Karachi had arrived on February 28, while the final arrival of flight IA-409 in Karachi took place on February 15 before services were suspended.
Officials added that several scheduled flights, including services planned for May 2 and May 3, had also been canceled during the suspension period.
Reports further suggested that Iraqi Airways is now planning to expand its Pakistan operations, with direct flights between Baghdad and Islamabad expected to begin in the near future.
The restoration of flights comes at a time when diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran are reportedly showing progress. A day earlier, Donald Trump claimed that significant progress had been made toward a possible peace agreement involving Iran. He said a proposed deal was largely finalized and only required final approval from the involved countries.
According to reports, Trump held discussions with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, and Bahrain regarding regional peace efforts and broader Middle East issues.
Media reports also claimed that Asim Munir played a behind-the-scenes diplomatic role in helping reduce tensions between the United States and Iran by maintaining communication with regional and international officials.
Officials believe the improving regional situation has helped pave the way for the resumption of direct Iraq-Pakistan flight operations after nearly three months.
