U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that all Iranian airlines will be blocked from operating globally beginning Wednesday, September 23, as part of newly implemented American sanctions.
In an interview with CNBC, Bessent stated that Iranian carriers will be unable to conduct international operations due to restrictions on financial transactions and services. The sanctions target five sectors: aviation, maritime shipping, cryptocurrencies, and gold.
Bessent warned that global actors in aviation will face severe consequences if they continue to work with Iranian airlines. "If an Iranian airplane lands, you cannot provide it fuel, you cannot provide it landing and servicing, nor can you sell it tickets. Otherwise, you will be completely cut off from the dollar financial system," Bessent said.
The restrictions apply not only to the airlines themselves but also to airports, fuel suppliers, ticket-selling companies, and other businesses that enable their international operations. Bessent emphasized that Iranian carriers will be unable to process or receive payments, forcing them to cease international market activity.
The sanctions represent an escalation of U.S. pressure on Iran's aviation sector as part of broader economic restrictions announced by Washington.