AP is reporting the shutdown as a precursor to the "security plan" through Iraqi government sources. It is not clear if this is in advance of U.S. attacks on Baghdad neighborhoods or other security activities or just an increasing level of hostility shown to neighbors (see Slogger's story on the Turkish oil sales ban)

Syria's official news service SANA is saying the shut down was sparked by Iraqi planes not meeting safety requirements and unauthorized entry of air space. The current ban only affects Iraqi Airways which flies between Damascus and Baghdad.

The Iraqi government had also closing Syrian and Iranian border crossings in advance of Ashura and said they may close more crossings.