Mushfiqur Rahim stranded in Jeddah due to military conflict

Veteran Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim is stranded at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah after flights were abruptly suspended amid escalating conflict in the Middle East.

In a post on his verified Facebook page, Mushfiqur, who had been in Saudi Arabia performing Umrah, said his Emirates flight to Dubai was forced to return to Jeddah due to the disruption. He asked his followers for prayers as he and thousands of other passengers wait to return home.

Following escalating airstrikes and missile exchanges in the Gulf region, most flights in the Middle East have been temporarily suspended.

Airports in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have reported heightened security alerts, prompting authorities in Bangladesh to take precautionary measures.

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport officials confirmed on Saturday that operations to key Middle Eastern destinations have been halted until further notice.

"Only Almighty Allah knows when and how we will be able to go to Dhaka along with other Bangladeshi people. Seeking prayers," Mushfiqur posted.

ICC mobilises travel, security and logistics teams

The ICC has activated contingency plans to support stakeholder safety amid the conflict. While there is no direct impact on the ongoing T20 World Cup, many personnel involved—including players, team management, match officials, broadcast teams, and event staff—rely on Middle Eastern airport hubs for travel.

"The safety and well-being of every individual connected to our event is the ICC's highest priority," the ICC said in a statement.

The ICC has mobilised travel, logistics, and security teams and is working to ensure stakeholders can return home safely with minimal disruption. The statement urged fans who have travelled or were planning to travel for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 to monitor advisories and consider all factors before undertaking further international travel.

Current measures include working with major international carriers to secure alternative routes, providing real-time advisories, and operating an ICC Travel Support Desk.