US Threatens Global Shutdown of Iranian Airlines from September 23
The US Treasury Department has warned that Iranian airlines could face severe disruptions in global operations starting September 23 as Washington prepares secondary sanctions against companies providing services to the carriers. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Iranian airlines could be effectively blocked from international aviation networks if businesses continue assisting them.
The restrictions would prevent airports, fuel suppliers, ticketing firms and other aviation-related companies from servicing Iranian carriers, with non-compliance risking exclusion from the dollar system. Companies in energy, shipping, technology, gold and digital assets sectors could also face penalties. Iraq and Georgia have indicated plans to restrict Iranian airline operations, while Turkish authorities prompted Mahan Air to suspend its services.
Iran's aviation sector has already faced prolonged challenges under existing sanctions, limiting access to new aircraft, spare parts and maintenance support. The latest measures intensify pressure on the country's airlines.
