During its 237th session, ICAO adopted a resolution supporting a joint working paper submitted by the Arab group.
The resolution addressed recent incidents involving Iran, describing them as a risk to the safety of international civil aviation in the Middle East.
Following a special session on the paper, Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh Elhefny said the discussions reflected a unified Arab position on the issue.
He stressed the importance of coordination among Arab states to protect shared interests, safeguard aviation safety and security, and avoid interference between civilian and military operations.
Elhefny said Egypt played an active role in building consensus around the Arab proposal, contributing to the Council’s adoption of a clear position on the matter.
He added that the resolution underscores the need to uphold international rules and conventions governing civil aviation and to avoid actions that could compromise safety or security.
The minister said Egypt will continue to work with Arab states and international partners to strengthen aviation safety frameworks, support compliance with international law, and safeguard air navigation at both regional and global levels.
He also referred to Iran's strikes affecting civil aviation facilities, including airports and other civilian infrastructure.
The Council reviewed incidents reported since 28 February 2026 involving Iranian missiles and drones targeting Gulf Cooperation Council countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—as well as Jordan.
It said these actions are inconsistent with the provisions of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention) and the Charter of the United Nations.
The resolution cited Article 1 of the Chicago Convention, which affirms each state’s sovereignty over its airspace, and Article 3 bis, which addresses the use of weapons against civil aircraft.
It also noted that the use of drones in this context has exposed key international air routes to heightened risk.
In response, several states implemented emergency measures, including temporary airspace closures and flight rerouting, leading to disruptions in air traffic.
The Council also referred to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which addresses attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including airports, under international law.
The ICAO Council said it may take further steps within its legal framework to protect the safety of international civil aviation and maintain the integrity of global airspace.
On 28 February, the US and Israel began a war on Iran, striking military targets as well as civilian infrastructure. In response, Iran retaliated by striking US military facilities and bases in various Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries using missiles and drones.
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