Iran Condemns Israeli Threats to Passenger Flights Amid Beirut Protests
Iran has condemned Israeli threats against a passenger plane carrying Lebanese citizens, stating these actions violate international law. Following the cancellation of Iranian flights to Lebanon under Israeli pressure, protests erupted in Beirut. Iran’s Ambassador rejected alternative flight proposals from Lebanon, insisting that no obstacles should impede Iranian air travel. The situation highlights heightened tensions and calls for a resolution to restore regular flight service.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, condemned the Israeli threats against a passenger plane carrying Lebanese citizens, labeling them as serious violations of international law and Lebanon’s sovereignty. He expressed concern over the disruption of flights to Beirut Airport as a result of these threats and criticized the cancellation of two scheduled flights from Iran to Lebanon, which he attributed to pressure from Israel. Baghaei called for decisive action from international organizations, particularly the International Civil Aviation Organization, to safeguard aviation safety from Israeli aggression.
In response to these developments, Lebanese protests erupted around Beirut International Airport, with demonstrators blocking access and burning tires while voicing anti-U.S. and anti-Israeli sentiments. The situation escalated when clashes occurred between protesters and Lebanese military personnel attempting to clear the area. The protests were triggered by the cancellation of Iranian flights, which left many passengers, particularly pilgrims, stranded.
Iran’s Ambassador to Beirut, Mojtaba Amani, stated that Tehran does not accept the Lebanese government’s proposal for alternative flights for Iranian planes that would ultimately cancel existing services. He emphasized the need for Lebanon to ensure that Iranian air travel is unimpeded and indicated ongoing negotiations for a mutually beneficial agreement. Amani remarked that the flight cancellations coincided with Israeli threats against Lebanon, which the Lebanese people firmly reject, labeling the situation as unacceptable.
Amani expressed hope for a swift resolution to the current crisis and called for the Lebanese government to act with prudence. He highlighted the negative implications of the cancellations on Lebanese passengers who wish to travel to Iran for pilgrimage. Iran anticipates constructive dialogue with the Lebanese authorities to ensure the resumption of flights without obstruction.
In summary, Iran has condemned the Israeli regime’s threats against passenger planes, calling for international intervention to protect aviation safety. Protests erupted in Beirut due to the cancellation of flights carrying Lebanese pilgrims, reflecting growing unrest over perceived foreign interference. The Iranian Ambassador reiterated Iran’s stance against any modifications to existing flight agreements with Lebanon and remains hopeful for a resolution. The situation underscores the sensitivity of aviation issues amidst regional tensions.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
