Europe to limit more Iran flights over missile support to Russia

France, Germany and the UK said they would further restrict flights to and from Iran, part of a broader push with the US to punish the country over accusations it provided Russia ballistic missiles for the war against Ukraine. The European trio on Tuesday issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s move as a “direct threat to European security” and said they aim to cancel air services agreements with the country, which are necessary for direct flights. The US and the UK said they were coordinating to punish several officials and organizations in Iran and Russia, including state carrier Iran Air. The US and its allies had warned Iran for months against providing ballistic missiles to Russia and had threatened a swift response if it did so. Officials said last week they had confirmed a transfer had taken place. Speaking in London on Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Moscow would likely use the Fath-360 missiles on Ukrainian territory “within weeks.” Iran has denied it sent any weapons to Russia, calling the accusation politically driven and “baseless.” The flight restrictions risk further isolating Iran and its diaspora after many European carriers including Lufthansa AG limited flights to the country. Iran Air operates two flights weekly from London’s Heathrow airport, as well as direct routes to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Rome and Paris. The carrier has faced restrictions for decades as a result of US sanctions that prevent the Islamic Republic from importing civilian aircraft and parts from international companies like Boeing Co. and Airbus SE. Most of the airline’s fleet was banned from the EU over safety concerns from 2010 to 2016. It’s also faced refueling restrictions that have occasionally forced its planes to make additional stops during longer flights.<br/>