The resistance faction Kataib Hezbollah has threatened to block all foreign aircraft and close national borders if Tehran is not granted full air access by the start of next month. The Iraqi militant group warned it may shut airports to foreign states and target hostile aircraft violating its airspace if the current "blockade" on Iranian airlines persists after October 1. This threat comes as Tehran-aligned groups organize protests at Najaf International Airport, demanding an end to flight restrictions.

The tension follows a total suspension of Iranian aviation links at Baghdad, Najaf, Erbil, and Sulaimaniya airports to comply with US Treasury sanctions. While the US is weighing a one-month sanctions waiver to allow Iraqi Airways to transport pilgrims between Iran and Najaf, contradictions remain over the current status of flights. Iraqi state media reported the resumption of services, but Majid Akhavan, a spokesperson for the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization, denied those reports and noted that Iranian planes are still barred from Iraqi territory.