Iranian flights to Lebanon are suspended until February 18 due to security concerns at Beirut’s airport. The decision, requested by Lebanese authorities, has led to protests and criticism from various political groups, including Hezbollah. Iran reassures that stranded passengers are being accommodated and will monitor the situation for possible resumption of flights once safe conditions are restored.
Iran has suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 following a request from Lebanese authorities due to heightened security concerns at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut. Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, announced the decision, citing the exceptional security situation and cancellation of international flights as reasons for the halt. Iranian officials are closely monitoring the situation and await clarity on developments by the deadline.
Amid this decision, the situation remains tense in Lebanon, with previous flights carrying pilgrims from Tehran to Beirut canceled, contributing to perceptions of foreign influence from Israel and Washington. Thousands protested on Thursday night, blocking access to the airport as discontent with the suspension grew. Reports indicated that Lebanon denied permission for Iranian flights to land twice last week, leading to calls from Iranian officials for Lebanon to prioritize its national sovereignty.
Hezbollah has voiced its disapproval of the flight ban, urging the Lebanese government to reverse the decision and resist external pressures. Pourfarzaneh reassured that stranded passengers at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Iran have been accommodated in hotels, emphasizing Tehran’s commitment to the welfare of both Iranian and Lebanese citizens. He characterized the current state of Beirut’s airport as “unsafe,” pledging to reinstigate flights once security conditions improve.
In summary, Iranian flights to Lebanon are suspended until February 18 due to security concerns outlined by Lebanese authorities. The decision has elicited protests and criticism from Lebanese citizens and political factions, particularly Hezbollah. The Iranian government is committed to ensuring passenger welfare during this period of uncertainty, monitoring the situation closely for future developments.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
