The Iran war is disrupting European deportation operations, with 5,500 planned returns affected

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Our latest investigation from Brussels, 26 October 2026m looks at a less-discussed consequence of the conflict involving Iran and Israel: its impact on European migration enforcement.

Internal Frontex documents show that approximately 5,500 returns supported by the EU border agency had not been carried out by 30 September because of flight disruptions and operational standstills linked to conflicts in the Middle East.

Airspace restrictions across several countries have complicated routes, while European governments continue to pursue policies aimed at increasing returns.

It illustrates how military conflicts can affect government operations far beyond the immediate conflict zone.

To what extent should European migration and security planning account for these kinds of disruptions?

Let us know your thoughts and let's discuss in the comments

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