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October 2, 2026
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Iran urges Iraq to lift flight ban amid US sanctions
Key Points
- Iran urged Iraq to lift all remaining flight restrictions caused by US sanctions, condemning Washington's "illegal and inhumane" efforts to disrupt its air transport.
- Services partially resumed at Najaf airport earlier in the week, but flights remain suspended at Baghdad, Erbil, and Sulaimaniyah airports.
- Foreign ground-handling companies have refused services for fear of US sanctions, forcing passengers onto lengthy land journeys and disrupting pilgrim traffic.
- The US ban, effective September 23, targets companies doing business with Iranian airlines and has sharply cut Iran’s international air links, reducing flights from Tehran by 42%.
- Iraq's government had sought a US exemption on humanitarian grounds, citing medical treatment, education, religious visits, and civilian interests.
Why This Matters
This article primarily focuses on the impact of US sanctions on air travel between Iran and Iraq. While it highlights the challenges of extraterritorial sanctions, this specific issue has no direct or significant relevance to Ghana's economy, policy, or opportunities for growth. Ghana is not directly involved in these sanctions or the affected air routes.
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Pentecost University to host international sustainability conference
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