Iraqi Airways has restarted commercial flights connecting the central Iraqi province of Najaf with airports in Iran, according to Iraq’s state-run news agency. The resumption followed a temporary suspension at Najaf and three other Iraqi airports that had halted operations due to apprehension regarding potential US secondary sanctions affecting aviation services connected to Tehran. The renewal of service enables Iraq’s national carrier to navigate around obstacles created when international ground handling contractors suspended services for Iran-linked flights, citing concerns about possible penalties.
On the same day, Iran escalated its response by lodging a formal complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization regarding US aviation sanctions. Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation chief indicated that coordinated diplomatic efforts with Iran’s Foreign Ministry are proceeding to restore flight operations within legal frameworks. The official noted that the ICAO had previously issued a ruling supporting Iran’s position in a formal protest against the US sanctions measures.
Iranian authorities have also initiated legal action at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, filing a complaint related to attacks on airports, aircraft and radar systems. A resolution remains pending, with any potential compensation contingent on the court’s ultimate determination. Meanwhile, Iran’s civil aviation leadership stated it is pursuing clarifications from multiple countries through diplomatic channels concerning cancelled flight routes.
The US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines took effect on September 23, creating liability for foreign airports and service providers that engage with designated Iranian carriers. Despite these restrictions, Iranian aviation continues to operate at reduced capacity. According to reports, flights from Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International airport to East Asia continue without cancellations. Recent actions by airports in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraq, Oman and the UAE have resulted in cancellations of flights operated by Iranian airlines.
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