AGP Executive Report

Flight Dispute Hits Travel Plans: Iran urged Iraq to lift remaining curbs on Iran-Iraq flights and restore normal air travel, blaming new US aviation sanctions for “economic terrorism” and saying the restrictions are disrupting pilgrims, patients, students, and business travelers. Airport Disruptions & Protests: Iraq had suspended flights to and from Iran while seeking exemptions; flights were partially resumed at Najaf, but Baghdad, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah stayed suspended, with passengers facing long overland journeys and protests reported near Najaf airport. Sovereignty Day, New Chapter: Iraq marked “Sovereignty Days” as the US-led coalition formally ended its mission and foreign troops withdrew, with Iraq’s leaders also pointing to a roadmap to bring weapons outside state control under government authority by June 2027. Gulf Tourism Caution: The Gulf’s tourism rebound faces another stress test after a flydubai cockpit incident, with airlines and travelers still sensitive to regional security warnings. Travel Risk Alerts: Canada raised Iraq to its highest travel-risk level, advising citizens to avoid all travel to Iraq alongside other volatile Middle East destinations.

Aviation & Safety: The UAE has ordered an investigation into a Flydubai flight incident (FZ1073) after a cockpit altercation led to an emergency diversion and safe landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia—raising fresh questions for regional travelers. Travel Advisory: Canada raised Iraq to its highest travel-risk level, urging citizens to avoid all travel amid volatile regional security and warning conditions could worsen quickly. Iraq Sovereignty & Tourism Impact: Iraq marked “Sovereignty Days” as the U.S.-led coalition completed its withdrawal, with Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi calling it a new chapter—good news for visitors, but analysts note security and arms-control issues remain unresolved. Flights to Iran (Holy Travel): The U.S. issued a license allowing Iraqi Airways flights between Iraq and Iran’s Najaf until Oct. 28, easing pressure on pilgrims and families while broader Iran-Iraq air restrictions still affect travel planning. Regional Security: Europe’s aviation safety guidance urges airlines to avoid parts of Saudi airspace due to missile/drone risks, which could mean longer routes for Middle East-bound trips. Money & Logistics: Iraq received a new shipment of U.S. dollars from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, supporting domestic cash needs and approved foreign transfers, including travel-related spending.

Iraq Sovereignty Days: Iraq marked a four-day “Sovereignty Days” holiday (Sept. 30–Oct. 3) as the US-led coalition formally ended its mission and completed the withdrawal, with officials stressing sovereignty is “on paper” and still fragile on the ground. Security Transition: The Pentagon says responsibility for remaining threats like ISIS cells now rests mainly with Iraqi forces, while Baghdad and analysts warn that militias and weapons control remain unresolved. Air Travel Update: Eurowings announced winter 2026/27 expansion with new direct Baghdad links (two weekly flights from Berlin and Düsseldorf starting Dec. 10, 2026), boosting Middle East connectivity for travelers. Iran Flight Exception: Iraqi Airways said it will resume Iran flights in October after securing a special US sanctions exemption, following earlier suspensions tied to compliance. Regional Travel Disruption: The Flydubai Tel Aviv incident—where a pilot was stabbed and the plane diverted to Saudi Arabia—also sparked renewed concerns about aviation safety and how quickly routes can be disrupted.

US-Iraq Withdrawal: The U.S. says it has completed the withdrawal of all remaining troops from Iraq, ending Operation Inherent Resolve and prompting Baghdad to mark “Sovereignty Days” (Sept. 30–Oct. 3) with parades in Baghdad and Najaf; officials stress the fight against terrorism continues, while security experts warn ISIS remnants and Iran-aligned militias could gain room. National Sovereignty & Travel Impact: Iraq’s government declared Oct. 1 National Sovereignty Day and framed the shift as full state responsibility—good news for travelers seeking a more stable “post-coalition” atmosphere, but locals still debate whether security gaps could affect movement. Aviation Update for Visitors: Iraqi Airways says it has secured a special U.S. sanctions exception to resume Iran flights in October (with Najaf as the key hub), after earlier bans and suspensions disrupted Iran-Iraq travel. Regional Security Spillover: A hijacking scare involving a FlyDubai flight to Israel (diverting to Saudi Arabia) is fueling broader aviation anxiety across the region, including for travelers transiting nearby routes.

U.S. Troops Exit Iraq: The Pentagon says the last American forces have left Iraq, ending Operation Inherent Resolve after 12 years and triggering fresh questions about security as Iraq marks “Sovereignty Day” with a four-day holiday. Kurdistan Readiness: KRG PM Masrour Barzani says Iraqi forces and the Peshmerga are ready to face any threats, with ties shifting toward cooperation beyond the military mission. Iran Flight Rules & Travel Impact: The U.S. Treasury granted Iraqi Airways a limited 30-day exemption to fly Iranian pilgrims via Najaf under strict reporting rules, while Iraqi leaders face pressure as Iran-linked groups warn of airport disruption. Basra Security Alert: A grenade attack hit a Sheikhi leader’s relatives’ home in Basra’s Izz al-Din Salim district; authorities opened an investigation. Erbil Legal Move: Ten Erbil lawyers volunteered to represent families of two Kurdish teenagers killed in Altun Kupri, pushing for a thorough probe in Kirkuk. Hospitality for Travelers: Accor and KRD Holding signed to develop the Mövenpick Erbil Gomaspan Resort, a 150-key lakeside property planned to open in 2030.

US-Iraq Security Shift: The last U.S. troops are set to leave Iraq after 23 years, with Iraq marking “Sovereignty Days” and officials pushing a new phase focused on state authority and militia disarmament—though analysts warn a security vacuum could help Iranian-backed groups and IS regroup. Pilgrimage Flights Under Sanctions: The U.S. approved a strict sanctions waiver for Iraqi Airways to fly between Najaf and Iran, limited to Iranian religious pilgrims, with tight limits on routes, cargo, and prohibited passengers; Najaf’s exemption is tied to local handling and non-dollar processing. Airport Rules Still Tight: Iraq’s transport ministry says flights will resume from Najaf in October once requirements are met, while other Iranian carriers remain restricted after earlier suspensions. Foreign Labor Oversight: A top Iraqi military office urged tighter regulation of foreign workers—balancing labor needs with specialized expertise and cracking down on illegal employment. Travel Disruption Watch: Regional aviation advisories remain high-risk as conflict-zone bulletins near review, keeping travel planning unpredictable for Iraq-bound passengers. Tourism & Business Signals: Iraq showcased a unified pavilion at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh, highlighting tech, logistics, tourism, and creative industries.

Iraq–Iran Flight Update: Iraqi Airways resumed commercial flights between Najaf and Iranian airports after a temporary suspension tied to new US Iran aviation sanctions, with Baghdad pushing for exemptions and noting the earlier halt was driven by foreign ground-handling firms avoiding US penalties. Religious Travel Relief: The US is reportedly set to grant a limited one-month sanctions waiver to allow flights carrying Shi’ite pilgrims between Iran and Iraq’s holy city of Najaf, with a possible longer-term exemption. Top-Level Push: Iraq’s president, PM, parliament speaker and judiciary chief backed the Najaf Airport exemption request, while leaders also reiterated that decisions on war, peace and weapons must stay with state institutions. Travel Reality Check: With Iran’s broader air links hit hard, travelers are increasingly forced into detours and overland routes, making Najaf’s restored service a key lifeline for pilgrims and other civilian travel. Regional Context: The final US forces withdrawal from Iraq this week marks a major shift in Iraq’s security posture, raising questions for how travel and regional ties may evolve.

Iraq-Iran Flight Shake-Up: Iraq’s top leaders backed a request to exempt Najaf International Airport from US measures affecting Iranian airlines, as Iraq seeks to restart civilian travel for religious visits, medical care and education. Airline Update: Iraqi Airways resumed flights between Najaf and Iranian airports, but sources say the wider ban on Iranian airlines remains. Public Pressure: Iraqis held nationwide rallies against the suspension of Iranian flights, with protesters gathering at Najaf and other airports. US Waiver Talks: Reuters reports the US is set to grant a one-month sanctions waiver to allow Iraqi Airways to fly pilgrims between Iran and Najaf. Travel Disruption Reality: Iran says it filed a complaint with ICAO over US aviation restrictions, while travelers report detours and cancellations. Security Spillover: UK police arrested five men after explosives were found near RAF Fairford, a US-used base linked to Iran strikes—raising travel and security concerns across the region. Sports & Travel: Iraq’s wrestling delegation arrived in Nagoya for the Asian Games, with two athletes set to compete.

Iraq-Iran Air Travel: Iraq’s top leaders are set to meet to discuss US warnings and restrictions tied to Iranian flights, as Baghdad seeks exemptions to keep civilian travel moving and avoid penalties for airports that service sanctioned carriers. Najaf Airport Update: Najaf International Airport has suspended flights to and from Iran until further notice, while officials say they’re pushing for new routes to protect tourism and passenger traffic. Sanctions Impact on Travelers: New US aviation sanctions are driving cancellations and making routes less predictable, with reports of families and patients facing major disruption as air links tighten. Energy Detour for Iraq: Syria has started shipping imported petrol to Iraq via the Banias terminal and the al-Tanf border crossing, aiming to stabilize supplies amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Local Travel & Culture: Duhok archaeologists continue excavations at a 16th-century caravanserai site in Akre, uncovering artifacts tied to historic travel routes. Sports Tourism Watch: Iraq’s bid to host “Gulf 28” in Basra faces uncertainty as Bahrain and Oman consider joining the race. Markets: The Iraq Stock Exchange logged over $4.58M in weekly trading, with the ISX60 edging up.

Iraq-Iran Air Travel: Iraq is pushing the US for exemptions to restore some Iranian flights for medical, education, religious travel, and civilian needs, after US sanctions warned Baghdad that servicing sanctioned Iranian airlines could trigger penalties. Najaf Airport: Najaf International says it has not been exempted and will keep Iran flights suspended, while the airport also plans to add new routes to boost tourism and passenger traffic. Baghdad Talks: A VIP Iranian flight with Iraqi passengers reportedly received special permission to land, even as broader services remain halted. US Pressure Campaign: US Treasury chief Scott Bessent says envoys are working to economically isolate Iran, citing flight permit revocations across the region. Tourism & Culture: In Duhok, archaeologists uncovered artifacts at a 16th-century caravanserai in Akre, with restoration planned. Sports Hosting: Iraq’s bid to host Gulf 28 faces uncertainty as Bahrain and Oman may enter the race.

Aviation & Tourism: Iraq’s Shiite Coordination Framework will meet PM Ali Al-Zaidi on Sunday to weigh the political fallout of Iran flight suspensions and whether to keep or reverse the move, as Baghdad pushes for US exemptions so humanitarian and civilian travel can resume. US Pressure: Washington warned Iraq that sanctions could hit not just Iranian airlines but any airport or company servicing them (landing, ground handling, refueling), prompting Iraq to halt Iranian flights at key airports. Humanitarian Exemptions: Iraq says talks with the US focus on allowing limited flights for medical care, education, religious visits, and other civilian needs—especially for patients, students, and pilgrims. Local Impact: Najaf saw protests by seminary teachers and students, while officials say the suspension threatens tourism and daily travel links. Money Flows: Iraq also announced an “understanding” with the US to continue physical dollar cash shipments to Baghdad, with another delivery expected soon. Smart Cities: Karbala launched Iraq’s first smart waste collection system, using an underground network to move waste to transfer stations.

Air Travel & Tourism: Iraq is holding direct talks with the U.S. to exempt some Iraqi airports from sanctions tied to Iranian airlines, aiming to restart flights for medical treatment, education, religious visits and other civilian travel after services were suspended—especially hitting Najaf. Regional Travel Disruption: Iran says flights to several countries (including Turkey, China and others) are still operating and denies plans for military retaliation, while Iraq’s parliament deputy speaker calls the restrictions unconstitutional and warns of damage to religious tourism and local businesses. Diplomacy & Money Flows: Iraq and the U.S. also reached an “understanding” for continued cash dollar shipments, with a new shipment expected soon. Public Services in Cities: Karbala province launched Iraq’s first smart waste collection system using an underground network to move waste to transfer stations, backed by Spanish partners. Holiday: Iraq declared a four-day state-institutions holiday for Sovereignty Days (Sept 30–Oct 3).

Aviation & Pilgrimage Disruption: Iraq is in direct talks with the U.S. to get exemptions for some Iraqi airports from sanctions tied to Iranian airlines, aiming to restart flights for humanitarian needs like medical treatment, education, and religious visits—after Baghdad, Najaf, and other airports suspended Iran-linked services. Local Travel Impact: Najaf International Airport has suspended all flights to and from Iran until further notice, leaving travelers scrambling and pushing some to long overland routes. Political Pressure at Airports: Iran-backed Harakat Al-Nujaba has threatened airport sit-ins unless flights with Iran resume, accusing Washington of controlling Iraq’s aviation decisions. Regional Tourism Demand: Iraqi visitors to Türkiye rose to 143,322 in August, making Iraq the largest Arab source of foreign arrivals that month. Travel Security Context: Iran warns that if air travel and airport services are denied to its airlines, “no country in the region” will be able to fly either, as the aviation curbs spread across the Gulf.

Aviation Disruption: Iraq’s Najaf International Airport suspended all flights to and from Iran indefinitely, with Baghdad also restricting Iranian airline operations; the shutdown is part of new US aviation sanctions that have already hit routes via Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil and Sulaimaniya, leaving pilgrims and travelers scrambling for long overland alternatives. Kurdistan Impact: Erbil and Al-Sulaymaniyah airports in the Kurdistan Region joined the halt, while Kirkuk reported no Iran-bound services. Iran’s Warning: Iran’s adviser Mohammad Mokhber warned that if Iranian airlines can’t fly and receive airport services, “no country in the region” will be able to—pushing the dispute beyond Iraq into wider Gulf travel. Local Travel Pressure: Ground-handling firms stopped servicing Iraq–Iran flights over fear of US Treasury penalties, effectively bringing the route to a standstill. Regional Context: The wider sanctions campaign is also driving UAE and other regional airport suspensions of Iranian carriers, raising the risk of more travel disruptions across the Middle East. Culture & Tourism: Erbil opened a photography exhibition tracing Kurdistan’s post-Anfal period and reconstruction, offering a travel-friendly cultural stop for visitors.

Aviation Disruption: Iraq has suspended flights with Iran across all major airports, with Kirkuk seeing no Iran service and Erbil and Al-Sulaymaniyah halting Iranian routes until further notice, after Najaf International Airport stopped all Iran flights from 2:00 a.m. Friday. Sanctions Fallout: The shutdown follows tighter US sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector and secondary penalties for airports and ground-handling firms, prompting regional carriers and Gulf hubs to suspend Iranian flights too. Pilgrimage Impact: The Najaf-Iran route is a key gateway for Shiite religious travel, and the broader air halt is expected to disrupt travel plans for visitors heading toward Karbala for Arba’een. Arba’een Travel Rush: Millions of pilgrims are marking Arba’een with the 80-kilometer walk between Najaf and Karbala, with reports of about three million crossing from Iran. Security Watch: Separate reports say suspected Islamic State figures have been arrested or extradited in Lebanon, Canada, Australia, and the US, underscoring heightened counterterrorism scrutiny for travelers.

Aviation & Travel Disruption: Najaf International Airport suspended all flights to and from Iran from 2:00 a.m. Friday (Sept 25) until further notice, as US sanctions tighten on Iran’s aviation sector and airlines scramble to reroute services. Regional Flight Cuts: The UAE and Oman suspended Iranian airline flights, with reports also pointing to cancellations affecting Baghdad and other nearby routes—bad news for Iraq-bound travelers and pilgrims. Sanctions Pressure: Washington’s new “secondary sanctions” push targets foreign companies that refuel, ticket, or provide ground services to Iranian carriers, raising fears of more airspace and connectivity disruptions. Local Impact in Iraq: Iran-linked Kataib Hezbollah urged Iraqis to “break the US siege on Iran,” including buying Iranian products and refusing activities that worsen hardship—an added layer of political pressure around travel and trade. Diplomacy Watch: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said it’s up to the US to choose when the war ends, while Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions at the UN.