Iran has urged Iraq to eliminate the remaining flight restrictions imposed due to US sanctions, emphasizing the necessity of restoring normal air travel for the benefit of millions of citizens in both countries. This call arises at a time when regional cooperation and connectivity are more vital than ever, as diplomatic channels continue to evolve in the Middle East and efforts to enhance trade relations gain momentum.
Iranian officials have called on Iraq to lift the lingering flight restrictions that have hampered air travel following US sanctions. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned Washington for its “illegal and inhumane” actions aimed at obstructing Iran’s trade and aviation. It urged the Iraqi government to reconsider the restrictions, highlighting the need for a diplomatic approach to facilitate the movement of both Iranian and Iraqi citizens.
Despite some progress in restoring services, including the resumption of flights between Najaf and Iran earlier this week, significant challenges remain. The Iraqi News Agency reported that this restoration was made possible through the persistent efforts of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi. Iraqi Ambassador to Iran, Yasser Abdulzahra al-Hajjaj, clarified that Baghdad had not intentionally suspended Iranian flights; however, foreign ground-handling companies remain hesitant to provide services amid fears of US sanctions.
Currently, flight operations are still halted at major airports such as Baghdad, Erbil, and Sulaimaniyah, which has forced travelers to undertake lengthy land journeys lasting over 12 hours. This suspension has particularly disrupted pilgrim traffic, impacting travel between Shia-majority regions. Protests have erupted in various cities within Iraq, including Najaf, Nasiriya, Karbala, and Amarah, signifying public discontent over the restrictions.
The US sanctions, which came into effect on September 23, target any entities conducting business with Iranian airlines, drastically affecting Iran’s international air connectivity. According to aviation monitoring service FlightRadar24, flights to and from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport have decreased significantly by 42 percent, with entire routes to destinations like Georgia, Oman, and Azerbaijan shut down, and flights to Dubai also suspended. Conversely, air traffic to China has remained stable, with only a minimal decline in services to Turkiye, indicating some resilience in certain routes despite the challenges posed by the sanctions. The Iraqi government is advocating for a US exemption based on humanitarian grounds, citing medical treatment, education, religious visits, and the welfare of civilians as crucial areas needing support.
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