The Trump administration is preparing to grant a limited waiver to its Iran sanctions program, permitting Iraqi Airways to operate flights between Iran and the Shi’ite holy city of Najaf for the next month. A source with direct knowledge of the deliberations told Reuters that the Treasury Department waiver is intended to facilitate religious pilgrimage, medical travel and education trips while safeguarding U.S. national‑security interests.
Why the waiver matters for Iraq
Iraq halted all flights to and from Iran on Friday in compliance with U.S. sanctions. Prime Minister Ali al‑Zaidi’s government has been walking a delicate line, seeking to deepen ties with Washington while maintaining a historically close relationship with Iran. The waiver aims to ease the strain on the Iraqi administration by allowing Shi’ite pilgrims to visit the shrine of Imam Ali in Najaf, a site that draws millions of believers each year.
Security safeguards included
According to the source, Zaidi’s office has offered a package of safeguards for the flights, including rigorous passenger screening, information sharing with U.S. authorities, and strict prohibitions against the transport of weapons, sanctioned individuals or illicit funds. These measures are designed to prevent any misuse of the air links while supporting the religious and humanitarian needs of the region’s Shi’ite community.
Regional context
In recent weeks, several countries—including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Iraq—have cancelled direct flights with Iran under U.S. pressure. Iranian officials have warned they could halt regional air travel if the restrictions continue. By granting a temporary waiver, the Trump administration seeks to prevent a broader backlash that could unite Shi’ite populations across Iraq and Iran against the Iraqi government, thereby undermining U.S. efforts to reduce Iranian influence in the region.
Potential for a longer‑term solution
The one‑month waiver is described as a pilot measure, with the possibility of a more permanent exemption if the initial period proves successful and security concerns remain addressed. An Iraqi official indicated that talks with the United States are ongoing and that flights could resume within 48 hours once the waiver is finalized.
Administration’s rationale
President Trump’s foreign‑policy team argues that the limited exemption balances humanitarian and religious freedoms with the broader goal of applying economic pressure on Tehran. By allowing pilgrim travel while maintaining strict security protocols, the administration demonstrates a nuanced approach that supports traditional families and faith‑based practices without compromising national security.
What’s next?
The State Department has referred specific questions to the Treasury Department, which has not yet responded to requests for comment. Observers will watch closely to see whether the waiver leads to a stable flow of pilgrim traffic and whether it can be extended without eroding the overall sanctions strategy against Iran.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
