Bessent warns Iran airlines will be shut down globally by Wednesday
- Iranian airlines face global shutdown by Wednesday per Bessent
- Foreign firms aiding Iran risk exclusion from dollar system
- Second largest Egyptian bank sanctioned for funneling $1.8 billion
- U.S. targets Turkish and Russian banks for aiding Iran
- 27 Iranian airlines previously sanctioned under E.O. 13902

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Iranian airlines will be shut down worldwide by Wednesday as the Trump administration escalates economic pressure on Tehran.
During an appearance on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Monday, Bessent said that if Iranian planes land, entities cannot provide fuel or landing services. He added that selling tickets would result in being knocked out of the dollar system.
Sanctions on Financial Enablers
Bessent noted that the U.S. had already sanctioned enablers globally. He stated that the second largest bank in Egypt was sanctioned after its Dubai branch funneled more than $1.8 billion into the Iranian government. The bank will be closed down.
He mentioned that the 30th largest Turkish bank faces the same fate. Bessent also accused external branches of the second largest Russian bank of aiding Iran.
Diplomatic Engagement
The Treasury Secretary said the U.S. is in touch with Chinese authorities, who have been very engaged. He noted that quiet behind-the-scenes discussions are better than public displays.
Aviation Sector Context
Iran has several airlines besides the national flag-carrier Iran Air. Other carriers include privately owned Mahan Air and AVA Airlines. The largest airport is Imam Khomenei International Airport in Tehran. According to Iranian government data, 7.6 million passengers traveled through the airport in 2024.
A Treasury statement released on September 8 noted that the U.S. sanctioned 27 airlines in Iran under E.O. 13902. This executive order, issued by Trump in 2020, imposes sanctions on persons operating in designated sectors of the Iranian economy.
How will the exclusion from the dollar system impact the liquidity and operational stability of major banks in Egypt, Turkey, and Russia?
What alternative financial corridors or barter systems might Iran and its partners develop to bypass U.S. sanctions on aviation fuel and ticketing?
Will the shutdown of Iranian airlines lead to a significant surge in regional air freight costs or disrupt global supply chains dependent on Middle Eastern transit hubs?

























