Iraqi and UAE Airports Suspend Iranian Flights Under US Sanctions

The Government of the United States launched Operation Economic Outcast in August to isolate Iran from the global economy, culminating in aviation sanctions that took effect on September 24, 2026. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that any company dealing with sanctioned Iranian airlines would be removed from the U.S. dollar system. This pressure campaign, supported by a diplomatic tour by Treasury official Jonathan Burke, led several nations to sever ties with Tehran.

In Iraq, the prime minister's office issued a directive suspending all flights to and from Iran at Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil, and Sulaimaniyah airports. The closure of Najaf International Airport has particularly disrupted Shia Muslim pilgrims, forcing many into 12-hour land journeys. The Government of Iraq is currently negotiating with the U.S. for humanitarian exemptions to allow travel for medical, educational, and religious purposes.

Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates suspended all Iranian airline operations and restricted transactions with Bank Melli Iran over concerns regarding terrorism financing and arms proliferation. Other nations, including Oman, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkmenistan, have implemented similar flight bans or airspace restrictions.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran would not bow to the pressure, while senior adviser Mohammad Mokhber warned that if Iran is denied airport services, other regional countries may face similar consequences. Despite the regional blockade, Iranian airlines continue limited operations to Russia, China, Turkiye, and Armenia.