Iraq seeks US exemption from sanctions on Iranian airlines

The Iraqi government is engaging in discussions with the United States in an effort to obtain a waiver from sanctions imposed on Iranian airlines. These sanctions have caused significant disruptions for travelers, including patients, students, and pilgrims. All Iraqi airports have implemented the US ban this week, leading to major disruptions at the airport in Najaf, a crucial destination for Iranian flights.

The Iraqi government is conducting direct negotiations with the American side to exempt certain Iraqi airports from these sanctions, according to a statement from the prime minister's media office. The exemption would permit flights to resume for humanitarian purposes, such as medical treatment, education, religious visits, and the general welfare of civilians.

Iranian airlines primarily transport Iraqi Shia pilgrims to Iran's holy cities, Iranians visiting sacred sites in Iraq, Iraqi students studying in Iran, and patients seeking medical treatment. In an interview with Iranian news agency ISNA, Iran's ambassador to Iraq, Mohammad Kazem Al-Sadegh, confirmed that his country is also communicating with Baghdad authorities to find a solution to restore the flights.

There are approximately 25 daily flights from Iran to Najaf and around 15 flights to Baghdad. Additionally, about 12,000 to 13,000 people travel between Iran and Iraq via Iranian airlines, a substantial number of individuals.