Moscow, 10 August 2024 (dpa/MIA) - The aviation authority in Moscow has prohibited Russian airlines from flying in the airspace over Israel in the coming nights.

The ban is in effect from 2200 GMT to 0400 GMT each night and will come into force for the first time at dawn on Saturday, a statement from the transport authority Rosaviatsiya in Moscow said on Friday evening.

The so-called notice to airmen or air missions (NOTAM) is valid until August 16 at 0900 GMT, it said.

A reason was not provided, although there is an apparent connection with a feared airstrike by Iran on Israel.

Russia is a close ally of Iran and has recently increased its delivery of air-defence weapons to the country.

Flights in Israeli airspace during the day continue to be permitted. However, Russian pilots must adhere to the safety regulations for flights in or over crisis areas, Rosaviatsiya said.

Many international airlines have cancelled their flights to Israel due to the threat of war.