US Sanctions Threaten to Ground Iranian Airlines Globally by September 23

Key points

• Bessent warned that any company providing fuel, landing services, or ticket sales to Iranian carriers risks being 'knocked out of the dollar system.'
• The US sanctioned all 27 Iranian carriers on September 8, citing their use in moving weapons and illicit cargo.
• Turkish Airlines, AJet, and Pegasus have cancelled flights to Iran until at least March 2027 due to the severity of the sanctions.
• Iraqi government sources indicated Baghdad would stop Iranian airlines from operating in the country in line with US measures.
• Analysts predict China and Russia will ignore US demands, while Turkey and the UAE may face internal pushback or partial compliance.

Background

This development follows a broader pattern of US economic pressure on Iran, including previous sanctions that contributed to currency collapse and rising costs for food and medicine. The current measures are part of 'Operation Economic Outcast,' which has expanded secondary sanctions to sectors like digital assets, gold, and shipping. Recent archive reports highlight the fragility of Iran’s aviation sector, with incidents like the Sepehran Airlines emergency landing in September 2026 underscoring the risks posed by an aging fleet and limited access to parts.

How outlets are covering it

Al Jazeera emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the sanctions, noting that they target the entire operations chain and could ground a third of Iran’s fleet. Iran International highlights the immediate impact on Turkish carriers and Iraqi compliance, while also noting diplomatic efforts by Qatar and Pakistan to mediate. Middle East Eye focuses on the technical constraints, such as the impact on Airbus aircraft with US-made components, and Turkey’s recent revocation of banking licenses for Iranian entities. The outlets differ on the likelihood of global compliance, with Al Jazeera and Iran International suggesting resistance from major powers like China and Russia, while Middle East Eye notes the practical impossibility for Turkish carriers to maintain flights.

Why it matters

The sanctions could severely disrupt travel for millions of Iranians, who already face high costs and limited options. The move may also affect regional hubs like Istanbul and Dubai, which rely on Iranian tourism and trade. Furthermore, the escalation could influence the broader US-Israel-Iran conflict, potentially impacting diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire or peace deal. The economic pressure may also force Iran to seek alternative routes, such as land or sea travel, further straining regional infrastructure.

What to watch

The effectiveness of the sanctions will depend on the willingness of countries like China, Russia, and Turkey to comply or resist. Iran may respond by closing its airspace to foreign carriers or seeking alternative routes. Diplomatic efforts by Qatar and Pakistan to mediate between the US and Iran will be crucial in determining whether the sanctions lead to a de-escalation or further escalation of the conflict. The upcoming UN General Assembly, where Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is expected to attend, may also provide a platform for diplomatic discussions.