Iran's national football team faced an unexpected travel disruption after Iraqi authorities refused permission for its aircraft to land at Basra International Airport on November 10, 2026. The decision was reportedly linked to US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines. The aircraft returned to Iran and landed at Abadan Airport instead. An Iranian consulate official confirmed that the players would complete their journey to Basra by road. The team was travelling to Iraq to participate in an upcoming four-nation football tournament. US Sanctions Behind the