Iranian attack in Qatar: Italian tanker diverted to Souda

An Italian Air Force Boeing KC-767A (reg. MM62229) is diverted to Souda Bay AB after being en route to Kuwait. The aircraft was about to enter Kuwaiti airspace and had performed several holding patterns over Saudi airspace while awaiting clearance to proceed. However, Kuwait, like other countries in the region, has closed its airspace due to Iranian threats against U.S. bases in the area — threats that have materialized with missile strikes on a U.S. base in Qatar.

The Italian tanker was heading to Kuwait International Airport, where it regularly operates in support of the Italian contingent stationed in the country.

Given the ongoing airspace closures across the region, the aircraft had no choice but to divert to another destination and await a resolution to the situation.