The Iraqi Ambassador to Tehran, Yasser Hajjaj, confirmed that the current suspension of air travel between Iraq and Iran is a temporary and transient circumstance. He stressed that this situation will in no way affect the depth of the historical
relations and firm bonds uniting the two neighboring countries and peoples. Hajjaj indicated that the Iraqi government is continuing its vigorous efforts and extensive communications to restore air traffic between the two nations to its normal state as soon as
possible. In a statement he issued, Ambassador Hajjaj clarified that the Iraqi government is committed to reinstating regular air travel between Iraq and Iran, driven by its keenness on the interests of both the Iraqi and Iranian peoples and to facilitate
the movement of citizens and travelers between the two sides. He explained that this halt in air traffic, despite its impact, is an exceptional and time-limited circumstance, and by no means reflects the nature of the close ties that transcend
such transient developments. Hajjaj also highlighted the significant importance of resuming air travel, which extends beyond mere tourism and travel. This importance encompasses a wide segment of Iraqis residing and studying in the Islamic Republic of Iran, with nearly one hundred
thousand Iraqi students enrolled in Iranian educational institutions. Furthermore, there is a large Iraqi diaspora estimated at hundreds of thousands, in addition to thousands of travelers who commute daily between the two countries via various airports and border crossings. The Ambassador
elucidated that ensuring the smooth flow of air transportation is a humanitarian and practical necessity to facilitate the movement of students, Iraqi diaspora members, visitors, and travelers. It also plays a vital role in enhancing economic, social, and cultural communication
between the two peoples. Pointing to Iraq's responsibility and its commitment to the interests of its citizens, Hajjaj affirmed that his country continues coordination and communications with the relevant parties on the Iranian side. These endeavors aim to address the exceptional
circumstances that led to the flight suspension, with the goal of resuming flights and restoring travel to its normal status as quickly as possible. The Ambassador concluded his remarks by reaffirming that Iraqi-Iranian relations possess a depth and resilience that transcend
being affected by an emergency situation. The historical, social, and cultural ties and mutual interests binding the two peoples form a solid foundation for the continued cooperation and coordination between the two states. He emphasized the commitment to work with
utmost seriousness and responsibility to overcome this situation and ensure the restoration of air traffic and smooth movement of citizens at the earliest possible opportunity.
