Iraq is currently engaged in talks with the US to exempt some of its airports from a ban on airlines operated by Iran, requesting that air services resume for humanitarian reasons related to medical treatment, education, religious visits, and the interests of civilians, a statement from the Iraqi prime minister’s office says.

“As the Iraqi government works to ease tensions in the region, it stresses that the continuation of the crises only makes the situation more complicated,” the statement reads.

“It calls on all parties to engage in dialogue and negotiations in order to reach solutions that bring an end to the current crisis and conflicts, in a manner that serves the interests of the countries and peoples of the region.”