Iraqi airports halt Iranian flights after new US aviation sanctions
Summary
Four airports in Iraq stopped all flights to and from Iran after the US set new rules against companies working with Iranian airlines. This is part of the US effort to isolate Iran economically. Passengers will now have to travel by land for long distances between the two countries.Key Facts
- Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil, and Sulaimaniyah airports in Iraq have suspended flights to and from Iran.
- The US introduced new aviation sanctions targeting businesses dealing with Iranian airlines.
- The US launched Operation Economic Outcast in August to isolate Iran from the global economy.
- Iraqi airlines stopped flying to Iran earlier in 2026 after a conflict involving Iran and Israel began.
- Najaf airport flights carry many Shia Muslim pilgrims traveling between Iraq and Iran’s holy sites.
- Passengers now face at least a 12-hour land journey between Iran and Iraq.
- Other nearby countries like the UAE and Qatar have also limited flights to Iran due to US sanctions.
- Iran still operates some limited flights to Turkey, Russia, China, and Armenia.
- Iraq’s government has not commented publicly, possibly to avoid upsetting pro-Iranian groups in its parliament.
- Companies providing airport services in Iraq are avoiding risks related to US sanctions on Iran.
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