Iran has suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 due to security concerns raised by Lebanese authorities regarding Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This decision follows a request from Lebanon amidst regional tensions, with protests erupting in response to the decision. Iranian authorities are committed to monitoring the security situation and ensuring the welfare of affected travelers.
TEHRAN – In a significant development, Hossein Pourfarzaneh, the head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, announced the suspension of all flights from Iran to Lebanon until February 18 due to unfavorable security conditions at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This decision comes in response to a formal request from Lebanese authorities, following an evaluation of the critical security situation in Beirut.
During a press briefing, Pourfarzaneh stated, “In light of the exceptional security situation in Beirut and the cancellation of all international flights, Lebanese officials have asked Iran to suspend its flights until the 18th of February.” He assured that Tehran is continuously monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of clarity before the designated date.
In response to inquiries regarding alleged Israeli threats aimed at Iranian planes en route to Lebanon, Pourfarzaneh indicated that no official warnings had been communicated to Iranian authorities. He reiterated that the flight suspension was based solely on Lebanon’s security assessment, which aligns with Iran’s commitment to diplomatic norms.
This suspension is timely, given recent events in Lebanon, where a planned flight for pilgrims was canceled. With the funeral of the revered Resistance Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah imminent, there are perceptions that these actions are influenced by external pressures from Israel and the United States.
Public sentiment in Lebanon has shown significant unrest, as thousands protested against the flight suspensions by obstructing road access to Beirut’s airport, continuing demonstrations into the following days. Reports indicate that Lebanese officials denied landing permissions for Iranian flights on two separate occasions last week, despite Iran urging Lebanon to resist foreign pressure and uphold its sovereignty.
Hezbollah has voiced strong opposition, releasing a statement demanding that the Lebanese government revoke its ban on Iranian flights to Beirut and take decisive action to prevent Israeli interference in national affairs. Pourfarzaneh addressed the situation of travelers stranded in Iran, confirming that they had been accommodated in airport hotels, showcasing Tehran’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its citizens.
He characterized the current security status of Beirut’s airport as “unsafe,” assuring that normal flight operations would be reinstated once security conditions demonstrate improvement.
In summary, the suspension of Iranian flights to Lebanon, initiated by Iranian aviation authorities, arises from serious security evaluations due to increasing tensions in Beirut. This decision reflects diplomatic caution and adherence to Lebanon’s safety assessments amid regional pressures. Protests against this suspension highlight the contentious nature of Iranian-Lebanese relations, with political factions demanding the government resist external influences and maintain sovereignty. The situation remains dynamic, warranting close observation as developments unfold leading up to February 18.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
