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US targets Iran's aviation sector in latest sanctions squeeze
apnews.com • • general
Key Points:
- The Trump administration expanded sanctions on Iran’s aviation industry, targeting over two dozen commercial and private airlines and foreign cargo service providers to further isolate Tehran economically.
- These measures are part of the "Operation Economic Outcast" campaign aimed at cutting off critical financial lifelines to Iran, including freezing assets of entities supporting Iran’s military and illicit activities.
- The sanctions specifically target airlines like Mahan Air, accused of supporting Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, and extend to private companies in Turkey, UAE, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia providing parts and logistics.
- Analysts view this as the most comprehensive U.S. effort to halt Iran’s civil aviation sector, potentially leading to a near-total aerial blockade, though concerns remain about safety risks for Iranian passengers due to aging aircraft.
- Iranian officials condemned the sanctions as ineffective and damaging to U.S. global standing, while the U.S. continues to balance sanctions enforcement with avoiding disruption to the global financial system.
