RismadarVoice Reporters
September 21, 2026
The United States has warned that Iranian airlines could effectively cease operating worldwide from Wednesday, September 23, as Washington intensifies sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent disclosed in an interview with CNBC that foreign airports and aviation service providers that continue to support Iranian carriers could face secondary sanctions.
Bessent said operators would risk losing access to the US dollar financial system if they provide Iranian airlines with essential services, including aviation fuel, landing facilities or ticket sales.
“If they land, you cannot provide them with fuel, you cannot provide them with landing services, you cannot sell them tickets, or you will be knocked out of the dollar system,” he said.
The warning follows sanctions imposed by Washington on September 8 against 36 entities linked to Iran’s aviation industry, including 27 Iranian airlines and other companies accused by the US of supporting the sector.
The US Treasury said the measures were aimed at disrupting Iran’s ability to use its aviation network to transport weapons, personnel and other cargo.
Bessent’s latest comments indicate that Washington intends to extend the pressure beyond Iranian airlines themselves by targeting foreign companies that provide services to them.
The measures come as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high, while Iran’s aviation sector continues to face restrictions affecting access to aircraft, spare parts, maintenance and international aviation services.
