Iranian airlines have been barred from operating in neighbouring countries including the UAE and Oman, after the United States imposed fresh sanctions targeting companies that continue business with Tehran.

The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority, the Middle East’s busiest travel hub, announced the suspension of all Iranian airline flights “until further notice,” citing compliance with the new U.S. policy. The move marks the first major impact of Washington’s shift to penalise third‑party firms that facilitate Iran’s aviation sector.

The sanctions deadline passed on Thursday, forcing regional operators to halt cooperation with Iranian carriers. Analysts warn that a sustained flight ban could deepen Iran’s isolation, cutting off vital travel and trade links at a time when the country is already under heavy economic pressure.

The crackdown is part of Washington’s broader effort to weaken Iran’s global reach, particularly after accusations of Tehran’s involvement in regional conflicts and support for armed groups. The restrictions are expected to affect thousands of passengers and disrupt commercial networks that rely on Iranian airlines for connectivity.

With Saudi Arabia also reporting the interception of Houthi ballistic missiles on the same day, the sanctions highlight the growing intersection of U.S. policy, regional security, and Iran’s shrinking international footprint.