Conference from Oman to Dublin due to Middle East conflict — ICANN moves
Potential for more airspace closures and travel delays push ICANN to relocate October meeting.
ICANN disclosed today that it has moved its Annual General Meeting from Muscat, Oman to Dublin, Ireland.
The move comes following tensions have ratcheted up in the Middle East, counting a war between Israel and Iran.
Qatar temporarily closed its airspace a week ago as Iran attacked a U.S. base there.
ICANN stated that Oman remains a safe host country, but cited the recent airspace closures and the problems it could face if there are further airspace closures in the area as the reason for the change.
The organization stated:
Given this uncertainty – and the possibility that travel to and from Oman could remain difficult – ICANN made the decision to relocate ICANN84 now to allow adequate time to secure a suitable alternative venue, given the impending planning deadlines for the meeting. Acting promptly allows ICANN to avoid a scenario where the meeting could be forced into a remote-only format, and helps to ensure a stable and well-attended event.
The meeting dates remain unchanged. The Dublin meeting will be October 25-30.
