Iran has filed a formal protest with the UN aviation watchdog, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) against US restrictions on Iranian aviation, as Tehran seeks to restore suspended flight routes. Iranian Civil Aviation Organization chief Abuzar Shiroudi talking to country’s state media said the protest, submitted in coordination with Iran’s Foreign Ministry, includes documents detailing disruptions to flights caused by the restrictions. He said, Iran is using all available legal avenues to remove barriers and resume flight routes that had previously been in operation. Since direct flights to Europe were restricted, Iran has relied on connecting services through regional airports, including Istanbul, as an alternative for passengers.

 

Iran has also filed a case at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, concerning attacks on airports, aircraft and radar systems. Shiroudi said the ICAO had ruled in Iran’s favour, while the ICJ case remains under review. 

 

The move follows US sanctions announced on 8th of this month against 36 targets linked to Iran’s aviation sector, including 27 Iranian airlines. Washington said the measures, which were part of “Operation Economic Outcast,” were aimed at disrupting what it described as Iran’s use of the aviation sector to transport weapons, personnel and illicit cargo.

 

Iran said it is continuing diplomatic and legal efforts to restore flight connections and remove barriers affecting its aviation sector.