Iraq seeks exemptions from US sanctions to resume flights with Iran

BAGHDAD, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi government is in direct dialogue with the United States to secure sanctions exemptions for certain Iraqi airports to resume flights with Iran on humanitarian grounds, according to an official statement on Saturday.

The media office of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said the requested waivers aim to allow flights for medical treatment, education, religious visits, and civilian interests following recent U.S. Department of the Treasury measures against Iranian airlines operating in the region.

The statement stressed that Iraq is actively working to de-escalate regional tensions, warned that prolonged crises further complicate the situation, and called on all parties to resolve conflicts through dialogue.

The move came after several Iraqi airports suspended incoming and outgoing flights to and from Iran recently, following U.S. sanctions, according to Iraqi media.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting Iran's aviation sector, suspending authorizations that allowed non-U.S. airlines to fly U.S.-origin or U.S.-controlled commercial aircraft into Iran, warning that foreign companies assisting sanctioned Iranian airlines, including through aircraft, cargo, sales-agent, procurement, or other support, could face consequences.