The first international flight to Iran since the end of the US-Israeli 40-day war has landed at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, marking the resumption of foreign air traffic following diplomatic efforts to restore international flight operations.

The flight, belonging to Iraqi Airways, arrived at Imam Khomeini International Airport on Thursday morning after taking off from the holy city of Najaf.

The flight was the first foreign service to Iran following the suspension of international flights during the 40-day war.

Iran, Iraq to resume flights after US sanctions waiver

Iran and Iraq are set to resume direct flights on Sunday after Baghdad secured a US exemption allowing Iranian airlines to operate up to 40 daily flights to Najaf.

Iranian and Iraqi airlines have agreed to resume flights between the two countries after Baghdad secured a US exemption allowing Iranian carriers to operate services to and from Najaf International Airport.

The flights had been suspended after US sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector affected companies providing services to Iranian airlines.

Iraq had sought exemptions from Washington to restore air links, particularly for pilgrimage, medical and educational travel.

The United States and the Israeli regime waged their illegal war of aggression against Iran on February 28. However, forty days later, on April 8, the enemies were forced to accept a ceasefire amid Iran’s brave resistance and successful retaliatory operations.

On June 17, Tehran and Washington signed the Pakistan-brokered memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end all hostilities and prepare for further negotiations.

However, Washington violated all provisions of the understanding, prompting Iran to deliver a firm response.