Iran warns neighbours over US flight ban

Iran has warned neighbouring countries against helping enforce a US ban on its international flights, saying their airlines and airports could become targets of Iranian defence forces.

Mohsen Rezaei, executive head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued the warning in an interview with semi-official Tasnim News on Thursday.

“If neighbouring countries cooperate with the US in stopping Iran’s international flights, their airports will no longer remain operational. We will take action,” he said.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on September 21 that restrictions on Iran’s international aviation services would take effect from September 23. Under the restrictions, Iranian airlines would not receive fuel or landing services at foreign airports, while tickets for their flights could not be sold there.

Bessent also warned countries that refused to enforce the restrictions of facing consequences.

Iranian flights disrupted

The restrictions have already affected Iran’s international flights. Iran cancelled flights to Baghdad and Muscat after Iraq and Oman imposed measures against Iranian airlines. Some Baghdad-bound flights may be redirected to Najaf.

Mahan Air has also suspended flights to Istanbul, Ankara and Muscat, while flights to some destinations in China and Turkey continue.