Iran has urged the Iraqi government to fully lift flight restrictions that were imposed as part of US sanctions, which have severely impacted Iran's international air connectivity. Since the sanctions took effect on September 23, flights from Iran have plummeted, with several routes to neighboring countries suspended, while others have experienced only minimal change.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the US efforts to enforce sanctions extraterritorially and appealed to Baghdad to remove the restrictions. Despite these measures, some flights between Najaf and Iran resumed late Monday, following diplomatic efforts and statements from Egyptian officials.
The restrictions have sparked protests across Iraq, including outside Najaf Airport and in cities such as Nasiriya, Karbala, and Amarah. Iraqi authorities have not officially suspended Iranian flights, but fears of US sanctions have led foreign ground-handling companies to refuse services, forcing passengers onto land journeys of at least 12 hours and disrupting religious pilgrimages.
The US sanctions, which took effect on September 23, target companies engaging with Iranian airlines, dramatically reducing Iran's international aviation links. Several aircraft types and airline operations have been affected, causing a decline in flights to Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport as well as routes to neighboring countries.
Iran continues to seek exemptions from US restrictions on humanitarian grounds, highlighting the importance of air travel for millions of citizens. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at easing the sanctions and restoring full flight operations.
