Iraq approves 40 daily Iranian flights via Najaf

Iraq has approved an arrangement allowing Iranian airlines to operate up to 40 flights a day to and from Najaf International Airport, following an exemption granted by the United States.

The agreement excludes Mahan Air, an Iranian carrier subject to US sanctions.

Iraq's Prime Minister's Office said the flights would support the movement of tourists, religious pilgrims and other passengers between Iraq and Iran.

The decision follows the suspension of flights to Iran after the United States imposed sanctions on entities linked to Iranian airlines. The restrictions disrupted air travel between the two countries and prompted protests in Iraq, along with calls from Iranian officials and supporters for the measures to be lifted.

Under the new arrangement, Iranian airlines will be permitted to resume scheduled services through Najaf, one of Iraq's most important destinations for religious tourism.

Flights at Baghdad, Erbil and Sulaimaniyah airports remain suspended, however. The continuing restrictions have forced some passengers to travel by land, with journeys between Iraq and Iran taking at least 12 hours in some cases.

The disruption has been particularly significant for religious pilgrims travelling between Iran and Iraq's Shia-majority areas. Najaf is home to major Islamic religious sites and is a key destination for pilgrims from Iran and other countries.

The reopening of Najaf airport services follows the resumption of commercial flights between Najaf and Iranian airports by Iraqi Airways earlier this week.

The latest agreement provides a limited restoration of air links between Iraq and Iran while restrictions remain in place at other Iraqi airports.

The arrangements also demonstrate the impact of US sanctions on regional aviation, with Baghdad required to secure an exemption before Iranian carriers could expand operations through Najaf.

Further changes to flight operations will depend on developments surrounding the sanctions and any additional agreements between Iraqi, Iranian and US authorities.