US Treasury Sanctions 27 Iranian Airlines September 8

The United States Treasury Department on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, imposed sweeping sanctions on 36 entities, including all 27 of Iran's remaining active airlines, in a major escalation of the economic pressure campaign against Tehran. The action, part of the broader "Operation Economic Outcast," targets the Islamic Republic's aviation sector, which officials accuse of being used to transport weapons, personnel, and illicit cargo. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the designations, stating the measures aim to eliminate Iran's operational capabilities in aviation. "Under Operation Economic Outcast, we promised severe consequences for those providing financial lifelines to the Iranian regime," Bessent said in a statement. "Let this be a warning to anyone doing business with Iran's remaining airlines, all of which we sanctioned today: You are at risk of being cut off from the global financial system." The sanctions target not only Iranian carriers but also a network of foreign companies and intermediaries. Among the designated airlines are Iran Aseman Airlines, Kish Airlines, Qeshm Air, and Saha Airlines.