Israel and the U.S. are silent on Hezbollah’s claims regarding the suspension of Iranian flights to Lebanon, which were reportedly carrying cash to the group. The Lebanese government’s indefinite halt, citing security concerns, remains in effect, complicating but not entirely blocking Iranian support for Hezbollah. Experts discuss the operational challenges Iran may encounter in delivering funds, indicating that the strategic environment continues to evolve amidst these geopolitical tensions.
Israel and the U.S. have chosen not to comment on Hezbollah’s claims that they coerced Lebanon to halt the arrival of Iranian flights which were reportedly delivering cash to the group. Experts suggest this silence reflects a broader trend of low-profile strategies both nations employ when addressing regional security challenges. While Lebanon’s indefinite restriction on Iranian airliners complicates cash transfers to Hezbollah, it does not completely obstruct them.
Lebanon began the flight suspension, originally termed a “security” measure, after denying landing rights to Mahan Air, stranding passengers in Tehran. Authorities initially projected a five-day limitation but extended the halt indefinitely without a specified end. Israel previously warned on social media of potential actions against Iran’s Quds Force if such flights persisted, emphasizing its commitment to security amid Hezbollah’s ongoing efforts to restore its resources following losses from recent Israeli operations.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated that Lebanese officials had been warned Israel would attack the airport if flights were allowed. Additionally, Hezbollah’s media suggested that U.S. pressures were designed to hinder the group’s operations through financial and political sanction threats. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun indicated that the restrictions on Iranian airlines were influenced by the sanctions they face.
Official responses from the Lebanese Embassy in Washington and Israel regarding these threats remain undisclosed. Although the U.S. State Department has been approached for clarity on communication with Lebanon concerning Israel’s stance, there has been no feedback. Retired Israeli Brigadier General Assaf Orion noted that Israel effectively communicates its warnings without needing to publicly broadcast specific threats, drawing parallels with previous military actions against Syrian airports used for smuggling.
The U.S. typically employs a combination of discreet communications and public statements for conveying warnings, indicated by former Israeli intelligence official Avi Melamed. During a recent visit to Lebanon, U.S. Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus emphasized preventing Hezbollah from exploiting its government role but did not mention sanctions. U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers, monitoring ceasefire conditions in Lebanon, has largely remained silent on these developments.
Though Iranian flights are suspended, Iran may resort to using alternative airlines from Iraq and Turkey to continue cash deliveries. However, utilizing these routes poses logistical challenges that require cooperation from transit country authorities. Delivering smaller cash amounts through these alternative means is feasible but complicates monitoring for illicit activities, as noted by experts.
The silence of Israel and the U.S. on Hezbollah’s claims reflects a strategy of minimal public engagement regarding security issues in the region. Lebanon’s indefinite barring of Iranian flights complicates cash transfers to Hezbollah but leaves avenues still open for Iran to facilitate funding through alternate routes. This situation exemplifies the intricate dynamics at play as regional tensions evolve.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
