Updated

The Iraqi government said it is negotiating with the United States for an exemption from sanctions on Iranian airlines, which have disrupted travel for patients, students and pilgrims. All Iraqi airports enforced the US ban this week, causing major disruption at the airport serving Najaf, a key destination for Iranian pilgrims. The dispute illustrates how US sanctions targeting Iran are producing collateral humanitarian and logistical strain on neighboring Iraq, prompting Baghdad to seek relief through direct talks with Washington.