US plans limited Iran–Iraq flight waiver for religious pilgrims

The United States is expected to grant a limited waiver from its Iran sanctions programme to allow Iraqi Airways to operate flights between Iran and the Iraqi city of Najaf, according to a person with direct knowledge of the deliberations. The source said the Treasury Department waiver would initially last one month and permit flights carrying Shiite Muslim religious pilgrims. A longer-term exemption could follow.

Iraq halted flights to and from Iran on Friday in line with the US sanctions. The proposed waiver is intended to ease pressure on Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s government, which is seeking closer relations with Washington while maintaining ties with neighbouring Iran. An Iraqi official said Baghdad was discussing an exemption with the United States and expected flights between Iran and Najaf to resume within 48 hours.

Iraq’s government had also sought exemptions for travel connected with medical treatment and education. The source said the plan reflected the sensitivity of the links between the two countries. Najaf is a major centre of Shiite religious study and attracts pilgrims to the shrine of Imam Ali.

The source warned that cutting air connections could generate opposition to Iraq’s government among different Shiite constituencies and undermine US efforts to reduce Iranian influence in Iraq. The administration of US President Donald Trump has been pressing regional governments to reduce ties with Iran. Countries including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Iraq have recently cancelled direct flights with Iran under US pressure, according to the material.

Iranian officials have threatened to halt regional air travel if the restrictions continue. Zaidi has offered safeguards for permitted flights, including strict screening, information sharing and measures to prevent the transport of weapons, sanctioned people or illicit funds. The US State Department referred questions to the Treasury, which had not immediately commented.