Iraq Asks US to Exempt Iranian Flights From Ban

Iraq Asks US to Exempt Iranian Flights From Ban

Iraq is seeking an exemption from the United States to allow Iranian airlines to resume flights to selected Iraqi airports amid disruptions caused by new US sanctions.

The Iraqi government is holding direct talks with Washington, seeking exemptions for flights serving medical, educational and religious travel as well as other civilian needs.

The request follows the suspension of Iranian flights at Iraqi airports, including Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaimaniyah, after the new US measures took effect.

The restrictions have disrupted travel between Iraq and Iran, particularly affecting patients, students and religious pilgrims who rely on air connections between the two countries.

Baghdad says it is continuing discussions with Washington as it seeks a humanitarian arrangement that would allow essential flights to resume.