Iraq says gets US exemption for Iranian flights to and from Najaf

Iranian airlines excluding Mahan Air are allowed 40 daily flights to and from Iraq’s Najaf international airport, the Iraqi prime minister’s office said on Friday, following a suspension of flights due to US sanctions.

Iraq had halted flights to and from Iran last week, in line with US sanctions.

Reuters reported earlier this week that the US was set to grant a one-month US Treasury waiver to allow for flights carrying Shia Muslim religious pilgrims between Iran and Iraq.

The Iraqi government had sought exemptions for travel related to pilgrimage, medical treatment and education. “The Prime Minister appreciates the positive response shown by the US government to Iraqi efforts and its cooperation in granting the requested exemption,” the statement said.

The US accuses Iranian carrier Mahan Air of transporting Iran’s Revolutionary Guards personnel, as well as weapons and drones.