Iran Rejects Lebanese Airlines Landing Request, Sparking Protests and Tensions
Iran has denied a landing request from Lebanon’s MEA for two aircraft, stating it must go through the Foreign Ministry. This has left Lebanese passengers stranded in Tehran after an Iran Air flight was canceled. Protests erupted in Beirut over the decision, which some view as a sovereignty violation. Hezbollah denied Israeli allegations that they exploit the airport for military purposes, prompting calls for international intervention.
Iran’s Civil Aviation Authority has denied a request from Lebanon’s Middle East Airlines (MEA) to land two aircraft in Tehran. They emphasized that the request must be filed through Lebanon’s Foreign Ministry, in line with bilateral agreements. The Lebanese ambassador in Tehran is preparing to send an official letter to Iran’s Foreign Ministry to seek authorization, though delays are expected due to Friday’s public holiday in Iran.
This situation has left hundreds of Lebanese travelers stranded at Tehran’s airport. Their scheduled Iran Air flight to Beirut was canceled as the necessary landing clearance was not granted. A Beirut airport official confirmed that they were informed by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport that two Mahan Air flights would not be allowed to land in Beirut and would be postponed until next week.
In response to the aviation dispute, demonstrators blocked roads near Beirut’s airport, burning tires to express their anger at the Lebanese government. They criticized the decision as an infringement on national sovereignty, particularly in light of comments from an Israeli military spokesperson. This spokesperson claimed that Iran’s Quds Force and Hezbollah have been using Beirut’s airport for illicit operations against Israel.
Hezbollah outright rejected the Israeli accusations, denouncing them as unfounded. They described Israel’s actions as violations of Lebanese sovereignty and condemned the U.S. for allegedly complicity in these matters. The group has called for a global outcry against Israel and urged the international community to take decisive action.
This aviation controversy arrives shortly after the Lebanese government had scrutinized an Iranian aircraft carrying a diplomatic entourage on January 3, which had sparked political tension within the region.
The recent dispute over aviation rights between Iran and Lebanon has not only stranded Lebanese travelers but also incited public protests and heightened political tension. As both nations navigate this complex issue, regional tensions, particularly involving Hezbollah and Israel, continue to escalate. The situation underscores the delicate balance of power and sovereignty within the region, raising concerns over interference and international relations.
Original Source: shafaq.com
