Treasury escalates economic measures
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that companies engaging with sanctioned Iranian airlines could face American sanctions. In a post on X, he emphasized that the warning forms part of Washington’s broader strategy to intensify economic pressure on Iran during the ongoing conflict.
He stated that any business conducted with these airlines exposes firms to potential penalties under US law. Furthermore, Bessent urged foreign governments to take decisive steps to prevent companies within their jurisdictions from assisting sanctioned aircraft. This includes services such as refueling, catering, maintenance, and airport fees.
In addition, he reaffirmed that the Treasury Department remains committed to enforcing strict measures. He stressed that authorities will act against third parties that support or facilitate dealings with Iranian entities. Consequently, the warning signals an expansion of the US “maximum pressure” approach.
Flights resume despite ongoing tensions
Meanwhile, Iran has restarted limited commercial flight operations after disruptions caused by the US-Israel conflict. State media reported that several flights departed from Tehran over the weekend. Earlier, the Iranian Civil Aviation Organisation confirmed that parts of the country’s airspace, particularly eastern international transit routes, had reopened.
At the same time, Washington has intensified its financial campaign against Tehran. The Treasury recently launched a programme called “Economic Fury,” targeting global assets linked to Iran’s oil trade. As part of this effort, US officials sent warning letters to Chinese banks, cautioning them against facilitating Iranian oil transactions.
Overall, Bessent reiterated that the United States will sustain its economic pressure campaign. While Iran resumes limited aviation activity, tensions remain high as both sides continue to pursue opposing strategies.
