US Warns Firms of Sanctions Risk for Iranian Airlines

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned on Monday that companies providing services to sanctioned Iranian airlines risk exposure to American sanctions, as part of an intensified economic pressure campaign on Tehran. He also stated that Iran's oil production faces imminent shutdowns due to a U.S. blockade and expanding sanctions, potentially leading to domestic gasoline shortages.

In posts on X, formerly Twitter, Bessent urged foreign governments to prevent firms in their jurisdictions from offering Iranian carriers jet fuel, maintenance, landing fees, or catering. "Doing business with sanctioned Iranian airlines risks exposure to U.S. sanctions," he wrote. The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control has designated airlines including Mahan Air, Iran Air, and Saha Airlines for ties to military activities, such as supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Bessent emphasized that the department would act against third parties facilitating business with these entities.

The warnings coincide with Iran's resumption of commercial flights from Tehran's international airport to destinations including Istanbul, Muscat, Iraq, and Qatar, following a pause during...