UK halts direct flights to Iran over missile supplies to Russia
A missile is launched during a joint exercise called the 'Great Prophet 17', in the southwest of Iran, in this picture obtained on December 22, 2021. (Reuters Photo)
The United Kingdom announced Tuesday the suspension of all direct air services between the UK and Iran, in response to Tehran’s supply of missiles to Russia for use in Ukraine.
The British government said the decision, made in collaboration with international partners, includes the cancellation of bilateral air service agreements with Iran, effectively blocking Iran Air’s ability to operate flights to the UK. Currently, the airline offers three weekly direct flights between London and Tehran, as listed on its website.
This latest move comes alongside broader sanctions imposed by Western countries, following reports that Iran has been providing Russia with short-range missiles. The transfer, which is expected to support imminent military action against Ukraine, was labeled a serious escalation that could endanger European security.
The UK Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the measures followed multiple warnings to Tehran about supplying arms to Moscow. “We will continue to use every lever at our disposal to put pressure on Iran to end its support for [Russian President Vladimir] Putin’s illegal invasion,” Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said.
Haigh emphasized that the decision to terminate air services was a direct result of Tehran’s continued involvement in supplying weaponry. “This is why we have begun the termination of all direct air services between the UK and Iran,” she added.
In addition to halting flights, the UK joined the United States in imposing sanctions on individuals and entities linked to Iran’s military support for Russia. These sanctions target those involved in the production and supply of ballistic missiles and drones, according to officials in London.
The sanctions also extend to several Russian organizations and five Russian cargo vessels that have reportedly been transporting military supplies from Iran to Russia.
