October 4, 2026
In the wake of Iraq’s commitment to the US embargo imposed on the Iranian aviation sector, the Iraqi Prime Minister, Ali al-Zaidi, announced that an agreement had been reached to operate 40 flights daily for Iranian airlines to and from Najaf International Airport, under a special exception approved by Washington, with Mahan Airlines exclusively excluded from this agreement.
The Prime Minister’s Media Office stated, in a statement published on Friday, that this agreement was the result of a series of communications and follow-ups with the parties concerned. Al-Zaidi explained that the step falls within government efforts aimed at facilitating the movement of travelers and visitors, as well as supporting the humanitarian, therapeutic, tourism, and academic aspects.
The Prime Minister appreciated the positive response and cooperation shown by the US government in granting the requested exception, stressing that this step reflects the importance of dialogue and diplomatic understanding in addressing issues with humanitarian dimensions and finding solutions that meet the needs of citizens.
It is noteworthy that Iraq was the first country to announce its compliance with the new US embargo that came into effect last September, as part of a severe sanctions package announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Besent, which aims to paralyze the Iranian aviation sector and increase economic pressure on Tehran, which prompted several countries to suspend their flights with Iran.
