Flights between Iran and Lebanon have been suspended until February 18 at Lebanon’s request due to security concerns. Protests erupted over Lebanese authorities blocking Iranian flights carrying Lebanese passengers, leading to demonstrations and confrontations. Iran has rejected Lebanon’s request for evacuation flights while expressing willingness to cooperate on airline operations.
All Iranian flights to Lebanon have been canceled until February 18 at the request of Lebanese authorities, as stated by Hossein Pour Farzaneh, the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization. This decision is due to ongoing security concerns in Beirut and the suspension of international flights. Consequently, transportation for Iranian passengers will be halted during this timeframe.
Pour Farzaneh noted that he had not received direct information regarding threats from Israel targeting Iranian flights. He assured that the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization would monitor the situation closely and strive to find a resolution. He stated, “We will definitely resolve this issue.”
Recent protests erupted over the refusal of Lebanese officials to allow an Iranian plane, carrying Lebanese passengers, to land at Beirut Airport. Demonstrations intensified with roadblocks across various main areas of Beirut, particularly during a protest organized by Hezbollah. The Lebanese army responded with tear gas against the protesters during these events.
In a related dispute, Iran declined Lebanon’s request to allow two Middle East Airlines planes to evacuate Lebanese citizens stranded in Tehran. Iranian Ambassador to Beirut, Mojtaba Amani, expressed that Iran is open to accepting flights from Lebanese airlines, but not if it leads to the cessation of Iranian flights to Lebanon.
The cancellation of flights from Iran to Lebanon is primarily a response to security requests from Lebanese authorities, with concerns highlighted regarding ongoing tensions. This situation has triggered nationwide protests, further complicating the relations surrounding air travel between the two countries. Iran maintains its stance on continuing flights despite the challenges posed by Lebanon’s actions.
Original Source: shafaq.com
