The United States has allowed Iranian airlines, with the exception of Mahan Air, to conduct up to 40 flights daily to Iraq’s sacred city of Najaf. This development, announced by the Iraqi Prime Minister’s office, comes amid an increasing push from Washington to impose sanctions on Iran’s aviation sector as part of a broader strategy to weaken Tehran’s economy.
Exemption Details and Impact on Travel
The newfound exemption permits flights through Najaf International Airport, which Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi heralded as a constructive move to revive air travel links between Iraq and Iran. He pointed out the importance of air travel in fostering communication and facilitating movement for various groups such as patients, religious pilgrims, and tourists. Zaidi emphasized Iraq’s commitment to maintaining its international relationships based on its citizens’ best interests while striving for balanced ties with multiple nations.
The announcement follows Iran’s recent calls for Iraq to eliminate existing restrictions on air travel that reportedly hampered travel for students, business travelers, and pilgrims alike. Tehran has attributed these restrictions to U.S. sanctions and has urged Baghdad to expedite the process of re-establishing regular air connectivity.
Mahan Air Remains Under Sanction
Despite the broader exemption, Mahan Air, a privately-operated Iranian airline, has not been included. The U.S. has sanctioned this airline since 2011 due to allegations of its support for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force. As a result of these sanctions, Mahan Air’s operations remain severely restricted, leaving many travelers without options for direct travel to Iraq.
While Iranian airlines can now operate in Najaf, Iraqi Airways must comply with specific stringent rules. The U.S. previously granted a waiver allowing the Iraqi airline to transport Iranian pilgrims under strict conditions. Regulations stipulate that only personal luggage can be carried, while bulk cash and items intended for Iranian military or intelligence are banned. Additionally, blocked individuals, including those linked to the Iranian government or armed groups, are also prohibited from travel.
U.S. Intensifies Sanctions Against Iran’s Aviation Sector
Washington has escalated its sanctions under Operation Economic Outcast to target key economic lifelines supporting the Iranian government. This initiative commenced on August 24 and incorporated actions against Iran’s aviation sector beginning September 8, with 36 entities accused of facilitating the industry being sanctioned.
On September 23, the U.S. imposed a deadline for international airports and airlines to cease services involving Iranian carriers. This led Iraq to instruct its civil aviation authority to halt all Iranian flights to Baghdad, prompting Najaf International Airport to suspend flights to and from Iran shortly thereafter. These restrictions created considerable disruptions at Najaf, where a Mahan Air flight was not allowed to board passengers.
In summary, while some Iranian airlines can now resume operations to Najaf, Mahan Air continues to face significant restrictions, reflecting the complex dynamics of international relations and economic sanctions targeting Iran. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities for travel and commerce between Iran and Iraq amidst a backdrop of geopolitical tension.