Iraq Seeks US Exemptions for Iranian Flights

Iraq is holding direct talks with the United States seeking exemptions for some Iraqi airports from Iranian airline restrictions. The Prime Minister's Media Office said exemptions would cover medical treatment, education, religious visits and other civilian interests. Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaymaniyah have completely suspended flights to and from Iran after US sanctions targeting about 30 Iran-linked companies, entities and individuals took effect September 23. Najaf suspended all Iran flights from 2:00 am Friday. Affected carriers include Iran Air, Fly Persia, Taban Air and Saha Airlines. Hussein al-Mousawi of the Al-Nujaba Movement called it "shameful submission and groveling before the American will," saying talk of sovereignty "remains nothing but a dream." He said the government, backed by more than 188 lawmakers including 95 resistance lawmakers, failed to oppose the measure. An Iraqi source told Tasnim the order came from Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi through the Ministry of Transport. Iran's Civil Aviation Organization told airlines to stop selling tickets on the affected routes. Iranian flights to Oman and Azerbaijan were also suspended. Baghdad has called for de-escalation of regional tensions.