US Grants Sanctions Exemptions for Iranian Flights to Najaf

The United States government granted sanctions exemptions to several Iranian airlines, allowing them to resume up to 40 daily flights to and from Najaf International Airport in Iraq. The decision follows direct negotiations between the Iraqi government and Washington to restore travel for pilgrims, students, and patients.

Flights had been suspended at four Iraqi airports after the United States Department of the Treasury sanctioned 36 entities linked to Iran's aviation sector on September 8. These sanctions led ground-handling companies to refuse service to Iranian aircraft. While flights to Najaf restarted late Monday, restrictions remain in place at airports in Baghdad, Erbil, and Sulaimaniyah.

Iraqi officials stated the exemption supports a partnership with the U.S. based on mutual respect and religious freedom. Conversely, the Iranian Foreign Ministry characterized the original sanctions as "illegal and inhumane." Mahan Air remains specifically excluded from the new exemption.