US Announces Sweeping Measures Targeting All Iranian Airlines

Photo: Collected

News Desk: The United States has unveiled a strict new plan aimed at effectively grounding Iranian airlines worldwide.

Starting Wednesday (September 23), Iranian airlines could face major disruptions to their international operations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that any airport, airline, or company in any country that provides services to Iranian aircraft—including refueling, landing rights, or ticket sales—could face severe US sanctions.

In an interview with CNBC, Bessent warned that from September 23, Iranian airlines would effectively be unable to operate internationally if foreign entities continue supporting them. He said any airport or foreign company assisting Iranian airlines could be cut off from the US dollar financial system.

Losing access to dollar-based transactions could expose foreign companies to significant financial losses, as many international businesses rely on the US financial system for global payments.

Part of Broader US Pressure on Iran

The new measures come amid ongoing political tensions between the administration of US President Donald Trump and Iran.

Earlier this month, the United States imposed additional sanctions on Iran's remaining airlines and on foreign companies that supply aircraft parts or maintenance services to them. For years, US sanctions have already made it difficult for Iranian airlines to purchase new aircraft or obtain spare parts for existing fleets.

According to the report, these actions are part of Washington's broader strategy to increase economic pressure on Iran and further isolate it from the international financial system. The policy also targets foreign companies doing business with Iran in sectors such as fuel, shipping, technology, and gold.

China Also Discussed in the Talks

The report also says that Scott Bessent met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng ahead of a planned meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

China is one of Iran's largest economic and diplomatic partners, making Beijing's position important in any effort to increase pressure on Tehran.

Bessent said the United States has had positive discussions with Chinese officials on the issue and that China is taking the matter seriously.

Source: Al Jazeera.