Intensive diplomatic endeavors led by the Iraqi government have culminated in an understanding permitting the resumption of air traffic for Iranian carriers via Najaf International Airport at a frequency of 40 daily flights, while specifically excluding Mahan Air from this
arrangement. An official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Media Office explained that this development falls within broader governmental measures aimed at facilitating travel procedures for incoming and outgoing passengers, as well as reinforcing humanitarian, medical, and academic mobility, alongside
revitalizing religious tourism. The agreement materialized following sustained coordination and close engagement overseen by Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi alongside relevant international and local stakeholders to resolve this crucial file. The Prime Minister voiced his appreciation for the constructive engagement
demonstrated by the United States government regarding Baghdad’s initiatives, particularly its cooperation in granting the requisite exemption. He underscored that this cooperative stance directly contributed to settling outstanding matters and easing the arrival of pilgrims and patients requiring specialized medical
care across borders. Furthermore, Al-Zaidi stressed that achieving this breakthrough highlights the effectiveness of constructive dialogue and principled diplomacy in crafting realistic solutions catering to public interests. He noted that commercial aviation serves as a vital human bridge that transcends
standard transit between airports, facilitating family reunions, aiding individuals seeking healthcare abroad, and invigorating local commercial and tourism activities. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Iraq’s foreign policy approach, which prioritizes national interests while establishing balanced and constructive ties with various nations
worldwide, ensuring these relationships serve to simplify civilian life and sustain cross-border communication. The statement concluded by emphasizing the Prime Minister’s ongoing commitment to following up on essential matters affecting the daily lives of citizens and foreign visitors, continuing coordinated
efforts with all concerned parties to remove structural hurdles facing the aviation and transportation sectors, thereby advancing humanitarian cooperation and safeguarding travelers’ welfare.
