Polish President Andrzej Duda’s official visit to Singapore, originally scheduled to conclude on June 13, was disrupted as escalating military operations between Israel and Iran forced major airspace closures, delaying his return flight, according to his office and multiple international news outlets .
Return Flight Delayed Amid Middle East Crisis
Poland’s Presidential Chancellery, citing “due to the international situation in the Middle East,” confirmed the president’s flight required rerouting. The departure from Singapore was postponed pending clearance of safe corridors amid disruption of air traffic over the Middle East and parts of Europe.
Several carriers—including Lufthansa, Aeroflot, Qatar Airways, and Israel’s El Al—halted or rerouted flights in affected zones. Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport, for instance, reported significant cancellations, reflecting widespread disruption.
Triggered by “Rising Lion” Strikes
The disruption followed Israel’s large-scale “Rising Lion” operation launched early on June 13— a military air campaign targeting over 100 Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities, missile factories, command centers, and senior commanders.
In response, Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones into Israeli territory, pushing the region into heightened alert. Both nations warned each other of further escalation.
Duda Safe, But Travel Plans Disrupted
Polish officials emphasized that President Duda and accompanying personnel remain unharmed. Polish soldiers and diplomats across the Middle East are reported safe, with the government actively monitoring the situation.
“Polish intelligence services are closely monitoring the situation,” Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak stated via X.
Broader Implications for Diplomacy and Security
Poland continues its diplomatic outreach from Singapore. Duda was due to meet Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on June 13 to discuss trade and security ties in Southeast Asia. The rescheduled departure awaits coordination of a safe flight path through still-constrained airspace.
Flight Safety vs. Diplomatic Timelines
Modern admin missions against Iran triggered a cascading effect: airlines grounded or diverted flights; airspace control authorities imposed dynamic restrictions; and leaders like Duda face delays until secure routes reopen.
What Happens Next
- Flight route: A new flight path avoiding active zones is being arranged.
- Diplomatic updates: Duda may continue virtual or local engagements in Singapore until departure.
- Regional travel alert: Air navigation agencies (ICAO, Eurocontrol) continue to adjust recommendations for Europe-Middle East corridors.
