US Treasury Secretary Warns of Potential Grounding of Iranian Airlines

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Iranian airlines could be effectively barred from international travel starting Wednesday, as the US threatens foreign companies with secondary sanctions if they continue to service these carriers. Bessent indicated that on September 23, all Iranian airlines would be shut down globally. This warning extends beyond the airlines to include airports, fuel suppliers, ticketing companies, and other businesses that support their operations abroad. He stated, "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." This threat is part of the Trump administration's ongoing economic campaign against Tehran, which has intensified amid the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. Earlier in September, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on all remaining Iranian airlines that had not been previously targeted, as well as on foreign companies accused of supporting Iran's aviation sector. Iran's aviation industry has faced significant challenges due to years of US sanctions, which have hindered the ability of carriers to purchase new aircraft and obtain necessary spare parts and maintenance services. The sanctions are part of a broader effort to isolate Iran from the international financial system, with secondary sanctions threatening penalties for foreign companies engaging in business with Iran across various sectors, including energy and technology. Bessent's remarks followed discussions with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, ahead of an upcoming meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. China is a key economic partner for Iran, and its cooperation is considered crucial to US efforts to financially isolate Tehran. Bessent noted that Chinese officials have been "very engaged" in the US pressure campaign, and that positive discussions have occurred with Chinese financial authorities regarding compliance with US sanctions on Iran.