The Trump administration has expanded sanctions against Iran's aviation industry, targeting over two dozen commercial and private airlines, as well as foreign cargo service providers. These measures are part of a broader initiative called Operation Economic Outcast, which aims to cut off critical financial resources from the Iranian government. The focus is on the remaining parts of Iran’s aviation sector, which has faced U.S. sanctions for years. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned in a press release that any entity conducting business with Iran’s remaining airlines risks being excluded from the global financial system. The new penalties are part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to disrupt Iran’s ability to use its aviation sector for illicit purposes. The targeted entities are accused of aiding Iran in moving weapons, personnel, and other prohibited cargo through air travel. These sanctions are designed to isolate Iran economically and prevent it from using its airlines as a tool for supporting military or terrorist activities. Among the entities targeted are private companies based in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia. These companies are alleged to have provided parts and logistical support to Iran’s Mahan Air, a carrier that has been under U.S. counterterrorism sanctions since 2019. Mahan Air is linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, a paramilitary group designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. The latest sanctions continue the Trump administration’s strategy of pressuring Iran through economic measures, aiming to weaken its financial and operational capabilities. By targeting both Iranian and foreign entities involved in supporting the aviation sector, the administration hopes to limit Iran’s ability to conduct activities that threaten regional stability or support terrorism.