Iraqi Airways to resume flights to Iran in October following U.S. sanctions exemption

Iraqi Airways is preparing to resume flight operations to Iran in October after the Iraqi government secured a special exemption from the United States. The flights will initially operate from the holy city of Najaf once all regulatory and technical requirements are fulfilled, following a suspension of services that began on September 25. The disruption was triggered by new U.S. Treasury Department sanctions targeting the Iranian aviation sector, which prohibited non-U.S. airlines from flying U.S.-origin or controlled aircraft into Iran.

The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, had engaged in direct dialogue with U.S. officials to obtain humanitarian-based relief, citing needs for pilgrimage, medical care, and education. Reuters reported that the initial exemption from the U.S. Treasury is expected to last for one month, with the possibility of a more permanent arrangement in the future. As part of the security guarantees provided to the U.S., Iraq has committed to implementing strict passenger screenings and data-sharing protocols at airports.

While the situation remains fluid, Iraqi authorities are currently accelerating preparations to meet the necessary safety and regulatory standards. The move marks a strategic effort by Baghdad to balance its regional commitments while maintaining compliance with international sanctions imposed on Tehran.