The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on 36 targets, including 27 Iranian airlines, in a sweeping move aimed at Iran’s remaining carrier network and related aviation support firms. The action blocks property and interests in property under U.S. jurisdiction and is intended to cut off aircraft, personnel and cargo channels that Washington says are being used to support illicit activity and weapons movement.
The measures cover carriers including Mahan Air, Iran Air Tour, Iran Aseman Airlines, Kish Air, Qeshm Air, Taban Airlines, Sepehran Airlines, Zagros Airlines and Karun Airlines. Treasury also targeted third-country companies that facilitated Mahan Air’s operations and procurement activity, including aviation support and aircraft-related services.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent framed the step as a warning to firms doing business with Iran’s surviving airlines. The designations follow an 24 August sector determination under Executive Order 13902 that opened the way for sanctions against the country’s active airline sector. Treasury tied the package to Operation Economic Outcast and warned that foreign businesses enabling sanctioned Iranian airlines could face serious consequences.