Recent tensions in the Middle East have prompted countries to take new steps to ensure flight safety. Iran has banned the use of electronic communication devices other than cell phones on airplanes. According to the official IRNA news agency, the Civil Aviation Authority Spokesperson, Cafer Yazerlu, announced that in order to ensure flight safety, the carrying of electronic communication devices such as paging devices and radios, excluding cell phones, is now forbidden on flights. Yazerlu stated that this ban applies to both the passenger cabin and cargo compartment, and passengers should refrain from bringing any electronic communication devices other than cell phones on board.