New Delhi. America has taken major action by increasing pressure on the aviation sector of Iran (The US… Iran). The US Treasury Department has announced new restrictions on networks linked to Iran. 27 airlines of Iran have been targeted in this action. Along with this, restrictions have also been imposed on some companies operating in Türkiye, UAE, Malaysia and Kazakhstan. American officials allege that these companies were helping Iranian airlines in providing essential aircraft items and other services.
This action of America can have a direct impact on Iran's aviation business. US officials say that the purpose of the new sanctions is to close the routes through which Iranian airlines receive money, aircraft equipment and other essential facilities from abroad. After the sanctions, it may become more difficult for Iranian aviation companies to do business internationally and get services from foreign companies.
Iran's aviation sector has been under pressure from US sanctions for a long time. Due to the old sanctions, Iranian airlines have faced difficulties in acquiring new aircraft as well as in obtaining necessary aircraft parts and technical services. Now after the new action this pressure is likely to increase further. Especially those companies which directly or indirectly do business with Iranian Airlines may face more trouble.
US officials have also asked financial institutions and banks to monitor transactions related to the Iranian aviation network. This means that it may be more difficult than before for Iranian airlines to make international payments and purchase essential goods from abroad. America has clearly indicated that foreign business networks providing support to Iran's aviation companies may also come under the scope of its action.
In this action, pressure has also been increased on Mahan Air. America has already banned this airline. The US alleges that Mahan Air has played a role in providing aid to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. According to US officials, some foreign companies helped Mahan Air acquire aircraft and operate international flights. Action has also been taken against some companies of Türkiye and Malaysia on charges of similar activities.
According to the US, some companies helped Mahan Air acquire at least three Boeing 777 aircraft. These aircraft were first retired from use in other countries and later made available for use by Iranian airlines. The US believes that such networks are helping Iran maintain its aviation capability despite sanctions.
The impact of the new restrictions is not likely to be limited to airlines alone. Foreign companies involved in ticket sales, aircraft supply, technical services and other aviation businesses may also face risks. This may increase pressure on Iran's international air connectivity. Its impact can also be seen in areas with major air connections like Dubai, Doha and Istanbul.
This action is considered to be part of a broader strategy to increase American economic pressure on Iran. America is already putting pressure on Iran's oil and other economic sectors through sanctions. Now by targeting the aviation sector also, America wants to further limit the routes of foreign money, goods and technical assistance reaching Iran. If such actions increase further in the coming time, it could become a big challenge for Iran's airlines to operate aircraft and maintain the international network.