Iranian airlines

The United States has threatened to ground Iranian airlines from operating worldwide starting Wednesday, according to an Al Jazeera report. The warning escalates pressure on Iran's civil aviation sector, and the news is drawing attention as observers assess the legal basis for such a global grounding and how Iranian carriers and other governments might respond.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has welcomed what he describes as a global crackdown on Iranian banks and airlines, signalling intensified international sanctions enforcement against Tehran's financial and aviation sectors. The comments point to coordinated action by allied governments targeting entities linked to Iran's economy, though details of specific measures or which countries took part were not given.

Iraq is asking Washington for an exemption from US sanctions that ban Iranian flights, according to Al Jazeera. The government of Prime Minister-era official Ali al-Zaidi is urging dialogue to de-escalate regional tensions while US sanctions target Iranian airlines. Iraq, which relies on routes and ties with its eastern neighbour, is trying to balance its relationship with Iran against US pressure.

Iraq has asked the United States for an exemption from sanctions affecting Iranian airlines, as restrictions have disrupted travel between the two countries. Iraqi officials are seeking relief because many travellers, including religious pilgrims, rely on flights to Iran. The request highlights how US sanctions on Iran are straining Iraq's transport links and complicating its relations with Washington and Tehran.