Iran has stopped Lebanese planes from returning its nationals stranded in Iran after Lebanon restricted an Iranian flight due to Israeli threats. This situation arose from accusations regarding arms transfers to Hezbollah, leading to protests and calls for international intervention. The standoff leaves many Lebanese citizens stranded following a pilgrimage.
Iran has halted Lebanese flights aimed at repatriating Lebanese citizens stranded in Iran. This action was triggered by Lebanon’s refusal to permit an Iranian plane from landing due to concerns about Israeli threats and accusations that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps was using civilian flights to aid Hezbollah.
Lebanon’s decision to block the Iranian flight followed a statement from the IDF warning of enforcement actions against any arms transfers to Hezbollah. In response, Iran asserted that Lebanese flights would be restricted until it received clearance for its own flights to Beirut.
As a result of this diplomatic standoff, numerous Lebanese citizens remain stuck in Iran after attending a religious pilgrimage, expected to return on Iran’s Mahan Air. Iran’s government condemned Israel’s actions, claiming violations of international law and Lebanese sovereignty, urging international bodies to intervene.
Lebanon’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced a temporary schedule alteration for some flights, including those from Iran, until February 18, citing additional security measures. This timeline aligns with Israel’s withdrawal deadline from southern Lebanon as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, originally set for January 26.
Israel has continually accused Hezbollah of utilizing Beirut’s airport for arms smuggling from Iran and recently took military action against alleged Hezbollah weapon sites in southern Lebanon. The tensions escalated following Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel beginning October 8, 2023, which ignited significant regional conflict, displacing many residents in northern Israel.
Iran’s refusal to allow Lebanese flights underscores the ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel, particularly regarding Hezbollah’s military activities. This situation has left many Lebanese citizens stranded, highlighting the complexities of regional politics and security. The international community is called upon to intervene to prevent further escalation and promote safety in civil aviation.
Original Source: news.az
