Mushfiqur Rahim stranded in Jeddah as US–Israel strikes on Iran disrupt flights

Mushfiqur Rahim has revealed he is stranded in Jeddah after escalating hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran triggered widespread airspace closures across the Middle East.

The veteran Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter had travelled to Makkah to perform Umrah and was en route to Dhaka via Dubai when his journey was abruptly interrupted. Emirates flight EK0806, scheduled to fly from Jeddah to Dubai, was turned back mid-air as regional tensions intensified, forcing aircraft to reroute amid safety concerns.

In a message shared from the airport, Mushfiqur said he had successfully completed his pilgrimage but found himself caught in the sudden suspension of flights.

“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, our flight was turned back to Jeddah mid-air. I am now stranded at the airport along with thousands of other passengers, including many fellow Bangladeshis,” he said.

Tens of thousands affected as skies shut

Airports across key transit hubs in the Gulf region reported major disruptions after coordinated strikes heightened fears of a broader regional conflict. Several nations temporarily restricted or closed their airspace, leaving tens of thousands of travellers stranded.

Airlines have advised passengers to check flight statuses before travelling to airports, with many carriers offering flexible rebooking options and waiving change fees for affected routes.

Travel disruption hits T20 World Cup logistics

The crisis has also raised logistical challenges for the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, currently being staged in India and Sri Lanka. With the tournament set to conclude on March 8, players, match officials, broadcast crews and event staff — many of whom transit through Gulf hubs such as Dubai — now face uncertainty regarding their return travel.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed it has activated contingency plans to ensure safe departures for all stakeholders once the tournament wraps up.

“The safety and well-being of everyone connected to the event is our highest priority,” an ICC spokesperson said. “Our travel, logistics and security teams are working closely with airlines and authorities to coordinate alternative arrangements where necessary.”

Fans and personnel have also been urged to closely monitor official travel advisories as the situation continues to evolve.