The larger the scale, the greater the difficulty of maintaining precision. Physics may not be a textbook for geopolitics, but its logic can sometimes offer an interesting metaphor: when pressure expands without producing the intended result, the question is whether the pressure itself has become the strategy. The United States has moved from maritime pressure towards aviation isolation against Iran. But if the strategy remains the same, how can Washington expect a different strategic result?

In early September, the US Treasury imposed sweeping sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that foreign companies providing fuel, landing services or ticketing to Iranian carriers could face exclusion from the US dollar system. Washington set September 23 as the enforcement deadline.

A blockade may restrict aircraft, ships and financial channels, but diplomacy remains the only mechanism capable of converting pressure into an exit strategy.

A blockade may restrict aircraft, ships and financial channels, but diplomacy remains the only mechanism capable of converting pressure into an exit strategy.

The immediate impact has been significant but not absolute. Iranian international connectivity has been reduced, with several regional routes suspended or restricted. Yet Iranian airlines have continued to operate some international flights, including services involving China and other destinations. This raises the central question: Is aviation........

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