Iran has halted all flights to Lebanon until February 18 at the request of Lebanese authorities, citing security concerns in Beirut. Protests have arisen over the refusal to allow Iranian flights carrying Lebanese passengers to land, escalating tensions and leading to confrontations near the airport. Iran rejected Lebanon’s request for evacuation flights, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Iranian air traffic.
On Sunday, Hossein Pour Farzaneh, the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, announced the suspension of all Iranian flights to Lebanon until February 18, 2024, following a request from the Lebanese authorities. He stated that this decision was prompted by security concerns in Beirut, particularly due to the ongoing suspension of international flights. Consequently, this halt will impact the transportation of Iranian passengers to Lebanon during this period.
Pour Farzaneh addressed the recent threats from Israel regarding potential strikes on Iranian flights to Lebanon, asserting that his organization had not received any communication pertaining to such threats. Nevertheless, he confirmed that the request for flight cancellation was communicated in writing, indicating serious security issues at this time in the region.
Protests erupted last Thursday when Lebanese demonstrators obstructed roads leading to Beirut Airport, expressing anger over the refusal of Lebanese officials to permit an Iranian aircraft, carrying Lebanese passengers, to land. These protests intensified, resulting in road closures throughout Beirut, and were notably supported by Hezbollah with a demonstration adjacent to Beirut International Airport, where the Lebanese army deployed tear gas against the protesters.
Adding to the tensions, Iran declined Lebanon’s request to use two Middle East Airlines planes for evacuating Lebanese citizens who remain stranded in Tehran. This rejection was rooted in Lebanon’s earlier refusal to allow Iranian flights to land in Beirut. Iranian Ambassador to Beirut, Mojtaba Amani, affirmed Tehran’s readiness to welcome flights from Lebanese airlines, provided they do not interfere with Iranian flight operations to Lebanon.
In conclusion, the suspension of Iranian flights to Lebanon reflects heightened security concerns in the region. This action follows Lebanese authorities’ request amidst ongoing protests and tensions related to flight operations. While Iran continues to support its airline activities, it stands firm in its position against compromising its aviation agreements. The situation remains fluid, and further developments will be closely monitored by officials.
Original Source: shafaq.com
