Iraq: Protests Erupt Over Iran Flight Ban in Iraqi Najaf.

Najaf, Iraq - September 29, 2026 Large crowds of protesters reportedly pushed into the entrance of Najaf International Airport on Monday, according to local Iraqi sources, during demonstrations against the suspension of flights to and from Iran. Protesters demanded the resumption of air travel, with the restrictions linked to concerns over U.S. sanctions targeting Iranian airlines and companies providing aviation services. The demonstrations came amid calls from Iraqi political and religious groups for flights to Iran to resume, particularly given Najaf’s importance as a major Shiite religious center and its longstanding religious and social ties with Iran.