**Title: Iran Cancels Flights to Baghdad and Muscat Ahead of US Sanctions**
**Date: September 22, 2026**
In a significant development, flights from Iran to Baghdad and Muscat will be suspended starting at midnight, as reported by Tasnim News Agency. This cancellation comes in anticipation of new sanctions imposed by the United States, which are set to take effect on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization confirmed the cancellations and indicated that negotiations are underway to redirect flights destined for Baghdad to Najaf Airport in Iraq. This adjustment aims to mitigate the impact of the sanctions on travel between Iran and Iraq.
Reports from Iran's ISNA news agency suggest that discussions are also taking place with Omani authorities regarding the flights to Muscat. Despite these cancellations, all other international flights, including those to Istanbul, are expected to continue as scheduled.
The upcoming sanctions, announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, will effectively ground all Iranian airlines starting September 23. Bessent highlighted the implications of these sanctions, stating that any service providers who assist Iranian carriers—whether through fueling, landing services, or ticket sales—would face severe repercussions, including exclusion from the US dollar system.
This move is part of a broader strategy by the US government to intensify its sanctions against Iran, which have been ongoing for several months. Aviation analysts noted that while the US does not have the authority to close foreign airspace, targeting local refueling and ground-handling services can effectively disrupt operations for Iranian airlines.
Earlier this month, the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) implemented stricter measures that affect trade, energy, and financial institutions linked to Iran. These sanctions were further expanded in late August under the administration of former President Donald Trump, which warned foreign companies engaging with Iran in various sectors, including shipping and technology, of potential penalties.
Despite the escalating tensions and sanctions, Iranian officials have expressed a willingness to engage in talks mediated by Qatar to seek a long-term resolution to the ongoing conflict. Mohsen Rezaei, Iran’s security chief, emphasized in a recent interview that it is in the interest of the US to accept Iran's conditions for dialogue. He also dismissed the effectiveness of Trump's threats, asserting that Iran is prepared for a decisive confrontation if necessary.
As the situation develops, the impact of these sanctions on Iranian aviation and regional travel remains to be seen, particularly in light of Iran's ongoing negotiations with neighboring countries.