The United States has granted a limited sanctions waiver allowing Iraqi airlines to operate flights between Iran and Najaf, Iraq, for Iranian religious pilgrims. The decision comes after Iraq asked Washington for an exemption from new sanctions affecting Iran’s aviation sector.
The waiver allows flights to operate from and return to Najaf International Airport. However, the permission comes with strict conditions. According to details of the US approval, only Iranian nationals travelling for religious pilgrimage can use these flights. Cargo is also limited to passengers’ personal baggage and items needed for flight safety.
The permission is currently limited to one month, with the possibility of an extension. Iraqi authorities have also agreed to apply passenger screening and share information to prevent the flights from being used to transport weapons, sanctioned individuals or illegal funds.
Iraq had suspended flights involving Iranian airlines after US sanctions on Iran’s aviation sector came into effect. The suspension affected pilgrims as well as Iraqi students and patients travelling to Iran for education and medical treatment. Iraqi Airways is expected to resume flights in October after completing the required arrangements.
