The administration sanctions 36 Iranian aviation targets to sever Tehran's financial lifelines
The administration announced sanctions on 36 targets linked to Iran's aviation sector, including 27 Iranian airlines and nine service providers. These actions are part of Operation Economic Outcast, a campaign intended to cut off the Iranian regime from the global financial system. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the administration is targeting companies that provide financial lifelines to the Iranian regime, specifically naming Mahan Air as a major focus. The sanctions also target covert front companies and foreign intermediaries in countries such as Turkey, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and the United Arab Emirates. The administration is effectively terminating all aviation-related licenses, including payments for overflights of Iranian airspace and authorizations for non-U.S. airlines flying U.S. export-controlled airplanes into Iran. While the administration seeks to pressure the regime, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the new sanctions. Meanwhile, domestic protests in Iran show oil workers demanding fairer compensation and higher wages as the country's economy faces high inflation and a maritime blockade.
Sources
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US hits Iranian airlines with 'sweeping sanctions' under Operation Economic Outcast
Fox Business
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US targets Iran’s airline industry as part of pressure campaign
cnn.com
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US senator says Turkey ‘not our friend’ over Iran-linked financing
Iran International