Iran reroutes Baghdad, Muscat flights following US sanctions

Dhaka: Iran has suspended flights from Tehran to Baghdad and Muscat as new US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines begin affecting access to foreign airports and aviation services.

Majid Akhavan, spokesman for Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, said on September 22 that Baghdad and Muscat airports would stop receiving Iranian flights from midnight on September 23. Tehran is working to redirect Baghdad-bound services to Najaf, he said.

Iranian news agency ISNA reported that discussions with Oman were continuing, while other international services, including flights to Istanbul, were expected to operate normally.

The changes come after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would seek to restrict Iranian carriers’ access to international aviation services from September 23. He warned companies providing fuel, landing support or ticketing services to sanctioned airlines could face penalties affecting their access to the US financial system.

The latest measures form part of Washington’s broader sanctions campaign against Iran, covering sectors including energy, trade and finance.

US authorities have also expanded secondary sanctions against foreign businesses dealing with Iran in several industries.

Despite the pressure, Tehran has indicated that it remains willing to pursue negotiations through Qatar. Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said Iran was prepared for further confrontation while urging Washington to accept Tehran’s conditions.