Iraq’s Najaf Airport Receives First Iranian Flight Following US Waiver

October 5, 2026

Baghdad: Iraq’s Najaf International Airport received its first direct flight from Tehran, marking the official resumption of air travel between the two countries following a US waiver, according to an airport statement.

The flight, operated by Iran’s Caspian Airlines, arrived at Najaf International Airport on Sunday. The airport director welcomed the passengers, while video footage released on the airport’s official Facebook page showed the aircraft receiving a traditional water-cannon salute.

40 Iranian Flights to Operate Daily

The resumption of flights follows an announcement by the Iraqi government on October 2 regarding an agreement allowing Iranian airlines, except Mahan Air, to operate 40 flights daily to and from Najaf International Airport.

A statement from the media office of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said the agreement followed cooperation from the US government in granting a requested exemption.

The arrangement is expected to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and other travellers, particularly those travelling for medical treatment, religious visits and tourism.

Najaf International Airport had suspended all incoming and outgoing flights to and from Iran on September 25, following recent US Treasury Department sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector. The sanctions suspended authorisations that had allowed non-US airlines to operate US-origin or US-controlled commercial aircraft into Iran.

Iran Calls for Diplomatic Solution

Earlier on Sunday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said there was no military or sanctions-based solution to the conflict with the US and described diplomacy as the only way to end the hostilities.

Speaking to ambassadors and representatives of countries and international organisations, Araghchi said Iran remained ready for a diplomatic solution while also being prepared to defend itself.

He expressed hope that the US would choose what he called “wisdom and rationality” and warned that Iran was more prepared than before if Washington opted for a military course.

Araghchi said Iran’s delegation had held several meetings during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and had presented a seven-day proposal aimed at resolving existing disputes and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the proposal, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the plan were accepted.

Araghchi’s remarks came amid continuing tensions surrounding the conflict and increasing economic pressure on Iran.