TEHRAN: Iran has rejected new U.S. sanctions targeting 27 Iranian airlines, saying the measures will increase costs but will not stop the country’s aviation operations.
Captain Abouzar Shiroudi, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, described the U.S. move as a continuation of what he called a failed and ineffective policy.
Shiroudi said Iran’s aviation industry has operated under restrictions for decades but has continued to function through the expertise and resilience of its aviation specialists.
He argued that sanctions against airlines ultimately affect ordinary people, as air travel is essential for millions of passengers as well as patients, students and businesses.
Despite restrictions on aircraft purchases, spare parts and aviation services, Iranian airlines have continued their operations, Shiroudi said.
He further assured that flights would continue while maintaining required aviation safety standards.
Iran has faced long-standing restrictions on its aviation sector, particularly over access to Western-made aircraft, replacement parts and related services. Tehran has repeatedly criticized such measures, arguing that they place additional pressure on civilians and essential services.
The latest sanctions add to the continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s aviation and broader economic activities.
