Lebanon faces a dual crisis sparked by a US-imposed ban on Iranian flights, which has led to domestic protests and political tension with Hezbollah. The flight ban, extended indefinitely, aims to align with European sanctions amid Israeli threats. While Hezbollah opposes the ban, maintaining support for the Lebanese government remains complicated by external pressures from the US and Israel, affecting regional dynamics.
Lebanon is currently facing a significant crisis after banning Iranian commercial flights, influenced by US and Israeli pressure. Tensions escalated on February 13 when an Iranian Mahan Air flight was prevented from landing at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri Airport, leading to protests from Hezbollah supporters and an attack on a UNIFIL convoy. This prompted military intervention by the Lebanese Army, which used tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
Hezbollah condemned the attack on UNIFIL and criticized the government’s heavy-handed approach. Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad demanded that the government lift the flight ban, asserting it jeopardizes national sovereignty and harms public interests. Despite criticism, Hezbollah pledged support for the new government.
Initially set to expire on February 18, the flight ban was extended indefinitely, with the government citing European sanctions as justification. Israel has long accused Iran of using commercial flights to finance Hezbollah, which both Iran and Hezbollah deny. This situation has led Iran to ban Lebanese flights until its own flights are permitted in Beirut.
Amid this crisis, funerals for assassinated Hezbollah leaders presented an opportunity for dialogue between Lebanese and Iranian officials. Iranian Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf attended the funerals, where Lebanese President Aoun expressed exhaustion from foreign wars on Lebanese soil and emphasized the need for unity against aggression.
Lebanon’s government is attempting to navigate the complex ties with Iran while facing domestic unrest due to flight bans. Critics argue that cutting off Iranian support not only weakens Hezbollah but could also destabilize relations with the Shia community, reliant on such backing after recent conflicts.
Experts suggest that the US-Israeli strategy aims to weaken Hezbollah further, while some warn that such actions risk igniting civil strife in Lebanon. Comments from various analysts highlight that Hezbollah’s internal position remains strong, despite external pressures.
US influence over Lebanon has been evident, pushing against Hezbollah’s political presence. Following the recent cabinet formation, terms relating to “armed resistance” were notably omitted, provoking backlash from Hezbollah loyalists, who fear the implications for Lebanon’s self-defense.
Iran’s strategy regarding Hezbollah is under scrutiny, particularly as it faces increasing regional pressures. Analysts remark that the Iranian approach toward its support for Hezbollah could adapt, as Israel tightens its strategic operations.
The Lebanese government must find a balance between maintaining relations with external powers while addressing the needs of its Shia community. President Aoun has stressed inclusivity and cooperation within the diverse Lebanese political landscape as vital to fostering stability amid external pressures.
In conclusion, as the Lebanese government grapples with a delicate balance between internal pressures from Hezbollah and external pressures from the US and Israel, the future of the Iran-Lebanon relationship hangs in the balance. The flight ban represents broader geopolitical tensions as both nations adapt to shifting circumstances.
This article underscores the complexities of the Lebanon-Iran relationship amidst a flight ban influenced by US-Israeli pressures. The ban has led to protests and unrest within Lebanon, particularly from Hezbollah loyalists, highlighting the broader implications for national sovereignty and the Shia community. Amidst ongoing regional tensions, understanding Lebanon’s internal dynamics and foreign relations is critical for future stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
