US slaps sanctions on Iranian airlines, service providers

The United States has sanctioned all remaining Iranian airlines and related service providers, intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. The Treasury Department targeted 36 entities, including 27 Iranian airlines, for their alleged role in supporting Iran's aviation sector, which the regime utilizes to transport weapons, personnel, and illicit goods.

These sanctions aim to "cripple" Iran's financial infrastructure, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent vowing severe consequences for those aiding the regime. The move comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran, which escalated following US-Israeli strikes in February. Iran has retaliated by blocking the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil prices to rise.

The sanctions target not only Iranian airlines but also third-country firms facilitating Mahan Air's activities, cargo service providers, and general sales agents servicing the airline's international flights. While China's potential involvement in sanctions is not specified, various actions are available for US service providers.

This latest round of sanctions follows previous actions taken against individuals and companies aiding Mahan Air in July. The aviation sector in Iran has faced significant challenges due to sanctions, which have severely limited its ability to acquire aircraft, spare parts, and maintenance services.