Goa, Sept. 22 -- The United States has stepped up pressure on Iran's aviation sector by targeting airlines and businesses linked to the country's air transport network, in a move that could have implications well beyond Iran. While Washington cannot physically shut Iranian airspace or prevent Iranian aircraft from flying through other countries, its sanctions strategy aims to make international operations increasingly difficult and expensive.

The latest measures are part of what the US administration has called "Operation Economic Outcast", a broader campaign announced by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on August 24. The initiative seeks to restrict Iran's access to financial networks, trading channels and foreign infrastructure that Wa...