Iran has suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 due to security concerns at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport, as requested by Lebanese authorities. This decision has led to protests in Lebanon and criticism from political groups, including Hezbollah. Tehran is ensuring the well-being of stranded passengers and monitoring developments closely.
TEHRAN – The head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, Hossein Pourfarzaneh, announced on Sunday that all flights from Iran to Lebanon will be temporarily suspended until February 18. This decision follows a request from Lebanese authorities due to ongoing security concerns at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. As stated by Pourfarzaneh, the exceptional security conditions led to the cancellation of international flights, prompting the suspension.
Pourfarzaneh emphasized that Tehran is vigilant regarding the situation’s developments and is expecting clearer indications about the circumstances leading up to February 18. He addressed inquiries about purported Israeli threats to intercept Iranian aircraft, asserting that no formal warnings had been issued to Iran concerning such risks. He reiterated that the suspension was driven solely by Lebanon’s security assessment in line with diplomatic protocols.
The suspension coincides with escalating tensions in Lebanon, marked by the cancellation of flights carrying Lebanese pilgrims from Tehran. Observers suggest that these actions may be influenced by Israeli and U.S. interests, particularly as the nation approaches a significant funeral event. Protests erupted in Lebanon with citizens blocking pathways to the airport in response to these suspensions, indicating widespread discontent.
Reports indicate that Lebanon refused to permit Iranian flights to land on two occasions last week, a decision that has drawn critical responses from Lebanese citizens and political parties. Hezbollah has publicly demanded that the Lebanese government revoke its suspension on Iranian flights, emphasizing the need for national sovereignty amidst external pressures.
Pourfarzaneh indicated that arrangements have been made to accommodate passengers stranded at Iran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, underscoring Iran’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens and those of Lebanon. He categorically referred to the status of Beirut Airport as ‘unsafe,’ pledging that regular operations would resume once the security situation improved.
In summary, Iranian flights to Lebanon have been suspended until February 18 due to security concerns at Beirut’s airport, following a request from Lebanese authorities. This suspension has sparked protests from Lebanese citizens and criticism from political factions, notably Hezbollah, which demands reversal of the flight ban. Tehran remains committed to monitoring the situation and accommodating affected passengers amid heightened tensions.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
