Iran Suspends Flights to Lebanon Amid Security Concerns Until February 18
Iran has suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 due to security issues at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport, following a request from Lebanese authorities. The decision has sparked protests in Lebanon and drawn political criticism, particularly from Hezbollah. Iranian officials are managing accommodations for stranded passengers while observing developments closely.
Iranian flights to Lebanon have been temporarily suspended until February 18, as announced by Hossein Pourfarzaneh, the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization. This action, prompted by a formal request from Lebanese authorities, is due to ongoing security conditions at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. Pourfarzaneh stated that the suspension is a response to the exceptional security situation in Beirut, where all international flights have been canceled.
The Iranian official also mentioned that Tehran is closely monitoring the developments and is awaiting clarity on the situation by the designated date. He addressed concerns regarding alleged Israeli threats to down Iranian planes headed to Lebanon, clarifying that no official warnings had been received. He reiterated that the flight suspension is strictly based on Lebanon’s security assessment, reflecting Iran’s adherence to diplomatic protocols.
The suspension comes against the backdrop of recent tensions in Lebanon, which included the cancellation of a flight intended to transport Lebanese pilgrims from Tehran to Beirut. The approach of the funeral for the Resistance Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has heightened perceptions that these actions are influenced by external pressures from Israel and the United States.
In response to the suspension, thousands of Lebanese citizens protested, blocking roads leading to the international airport. Over the weekend, demonstrators continued to express their discontent in the streets. Reports indicate that Lebanon denied permission for Iranian flights to land twice last week, prompting Iranian officials to call for a focus on national sovereignty and resistance to external influences.
The situation has incited strong criticism from various Lebanese political factions and citizens alike. Hezbollah has issued a statement demanding that the Lebanese government rescind the ban on Iranian aircraft landing at Beirut airport and take active measures to thwart external pressures from Israel.
Pourfarzaneh confirmed that arrangements have been made for stranded passengers at Iran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, providing accommodations in airport hotels. He emphasized Tehran’s commitment to the welfare of both Iranian and Lebanese citizens, and he described Beirut International Airport as presently unsafe, vowing to restore operations once the security conditions improve.
In summary, Iranian flights to Lebanon are suspended until February 18 due to security concerns at Beirut’s airport, following a request from Lebanese authorities. This suspension has prompted protests among Lebanese citizens and political criticism. Iran is monitoring the situation closely, while still emphasizing the importance of diplomatic protocols and the safety of its citizens.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
