UAE Halts Iranian Flights Amid New US Sanctions

On September 24, 2026, the General Civil Aviation Authority of the United Arab Emirates announced the suspension of all flights by Iranian airlines in response to new US sanctions. This marks a significant impact of the US policy shift targeting companies in third countries that conduct business with Iran.

The sanctions, which took effect on September 23, aim to ground Iran's entire civil fleet globally. Reports from Iran's Tasnim news agency indicated that flights to Oman, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Baghdad were also halted, with efforts underway to reroute flights to Najaf, a key Shi’ite pilgrimage site.

The enforcement of this air blockade could deepen Iran's isolation and exacerbate its economic crisis. A senior Iranian official warned of potential retaliation against countries complying with the US ban.

The sanctions are part of a broader strategy by the US, referred to by Donald Trump as “economic D-Day,” to extend financial sanctions against Iranian firms.