FM Discusses Exempting Flights to Iraq’s Holy Sites from Sanctions with the U.S. Treasury Secretary

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Fuad Hussein, met on Thursday, 1 October 2026, with U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, Mr Scott Bessent, in Washington, D.C., to discuss a number of issues related to Iraqi-American relations and economic and security developments in the region. The meeting addressed the repercussions of the sanctions imposed on Iran and their potential impact on Iraq, particularly their implications for Najaf International Airport, given its vital importance in facilitating the movement of visitors to the holy sites.

In this context, Mr Scott Bessent expressed understanding of the Iraqi request and agreed to exempt flights bound for the holy sites from the sanctions, thereby ensuring the continuation of visitor travel and facilitating their access.

For his part, Mr Fuad Hussein expressed Iraq’s appreciation for the support provided by the United States and the International Coalition to the Iraqi forces during their war against the terrorist organisation ISIS, commending the sacrifices that contributed to achieving victories over the organisation, affirming the Iraqi Government’s commitment to placing weapons, as well as decisions of war and peace, under the authority of the state and its constitutional institutions.

The Minister also expressed appreciation for the understanding shown by the U.S. Government and the U.S. Department of the Treasury regarding the importance of respecting religious freedom, facilitating visitors’ access to the holy sites, and resuming flights to them, affirming that this step reflects shared values based on tolerance and respect and contributes to strengthening the Iraqi-American partnership on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests.