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Iranian airlines have cancelled some international routes after the United States introduced new sanctions targeting the country’s aviation sector, adding pressure on an industry already affected by years of restrictions.
Georgia and Azerbaijan have confirmed suspensions of flights involving Iran, while a Tehran-based travel agent told AFP that routes to Baghdad, Muscat and Qatar had also been halted. However, some international connections remained available, including flights to China and other destinations.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the latest measures on Monday as part of Washington’s efforts to increase economic pressure on Tehran.
Speaking to Fox News on Wednesday, Bessent said, “We are squeezing the Iranians like they’ve never seen,” claiming that “probably more than 80 or 90 percent” of Iran’s external flights had been disrupted.
“I’m not sure how the Iranian representatives at the UN are going to get home,” he added.
The comments came as Iran’s delegation attended the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where President Masoud Pezeshkian criticised the sanctions and promised continued resistance.
“The resistance of the Iranian people will only intensify in the face of sanctions, mounting pressure and growing intimidation” from the United States, Pezeshkian said.
Despite the new restrictions, some flights continued. Tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed a Mahan Air flight from Tehran arriving in Guangzhou, China, after the sanctions took effect. Beijing has opposed the measures, describing the US sanctions as illegal.
Flights to Istanbul, Shanghai, Turkey and Armenia were also among routes that remained possible, though some cancellations were reported. A Tehran travel agent said uncertainty had affected ticket sales.
“The situation is unstable and we are no longer selling tickets for the time being for fear of cancellations,” the agent said.
Iranian officials have warned countries against supporting the restrictions. Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said countries cooperating with the US measures could face consequences.
“If a country cooperates with or embarks on adventures with the United States, its airports will no longer be able to operate flights to Iran,” Rezaei told state television.
The disruptions have also raised concerns among travellers, particularly religious pilgrims who frequently travel between Iran and Iraq.
Some travel agencies in Najaf reported receiving calls from worried passengers exploring alternative land routes, which would significantly lengthen journeys.
