Washington imposes sanctions on all Iranian airlines and warns those who engage with them.
- The U.S. has imposed sanctions on all Iranian airlines, affecting their operations.
- This action expands existing sanctions previously imposed on Mahan Air and Iran Air.
- The U.S. Treasury accuses Iran of using aviation to transport weapons and illicit goods.
- Entities engaging with Iranian airlines risk exclusion from the global financial system.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions on All Iranian Airlines
The United States has enacted comprehensive economic sanctions against the entire Iranian aviation sector. Officials warn that entities engaging with Iranian airlines may also face penalties.
Announcement from the U.S. Treasury Department
The U.S. Treasury Department released a statement confirming that all Iranian airlines are now subject to economic sanctions. This action represents the latest measures taken by Washington against Tehran.
Expansion of Existing Sanctions
Previously, two airlines, Mahan Air and Iran Air, were already under U.S. sanctions. The recent sanctions now extend to an additional 27 airlines operating at local or regional levels.
Allegations Against Iranian Authorities
The U.S. Treasury Department accused Iranian authorities of utilizing the aviation sector to transport weapons, individuals, and illicit goods. This accusation underscores the U.S. government’s concerns regarding Iran’s activities.
Suspension of Air Transport Exemptions
In a related move, the U.S. administration decided to suspend several exemptions linked to air transport. Notably, one exemption allowed non-U.S. airlines to operate U.S.-manufactured aircraft within Iran.
Targeting Intermediaries
The sanctions also target two companies accused of acting as intermediaries to facilitate Mahan Air’s acquisition of three Boeing 777 aircraft this summer. This action highlights the U.S. commitment to curbing Iran’s aviation capabilities.
Commitment to Strong Measures
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Pisent emphasized that the U.S. will continue to take stringent actions against those providing financial support to the Iranian regime. He noted that the new sanctions specifically aim at companies that persist in supporting Mahan Air.
Warning to Business Partners
Pisent cautioned entities that engage with Iranian airlines about the risks of being excluded from the global financial system. With all these airlines now under sanctions, the potential consequences for business relationships are significant.
This development marks a critical moment in U.S.-Iran relations, reflecting ongoing tensions and the U.S. government’s determination to address perceived threats from Iran’s aviation sector.
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