Iraqi Airways Receives US Treasury Waiver to Resume Flights to Iran Amid Sanctions
What happened
Iraqi Airways will resume flights to Iran from Najaf in October 2026 after receiving a one-month waiver from the US Treasury Department.
The Context
- Sanctions Compliance: Iraq suspended flights to Iran on September 25, 2026, to align with US sanctions, prompting protests and calls for exemptions.
- Limited Operations: The waiver allows only Iranian religious pilgrims to fly from Najaf, with strict conditions on passenger screening and compliance.
- Ongoing Tensions: Concurrently, the US designated 10 individuals and entities for arms procurement linked to Iran's Ministry of Defense, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The Number
— the number of individuals and entities sanctioned by the US Treasury for procuring weapons for Iran's military, underscoring the complexities of international relations and compliance for businesses operating in the region.
Takeaway
Expect continued diplomatic efforts and potential adjustments in travel regulations as Iraq navigates its relationship with the US and Iran.
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