Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem has called for the restoration of flights between Iran and Lebanon, deeming it essential for their relations. The flights were suspended earlier this year due to pressures related to Hezbollah. Qassem also warned of dire consequences from any U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran, following significant Iranian participation in Lebanese funerals.
Sheikh Naim Qassem, the Secretary-General of Hezbollah, has called for the resumption of suspended flights between Iran and Lebanon, highlighting its importance for enhancing bilateral relations. During an interview with Al-Manar TV, he stated, “We are determined to resume flights with Iran, our steadfast ally, and are working with the Lebanese government to resolve this issue.”
The flight suspension occurred in February following claims from the Israeli military that these flights were facilitating the transport of supplies to Hezbollah, allegedly influenced by U.S. pressure on Lebanon to extend the ban. Analysts suggest this measure aimed to isolate Hezbollah and curtail Iranian participation in the funerals of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and his deputy, Sayyed Hashim Safieddine.
In response to the flight cancellations, newly appointed Lebanese authorities attributed these to “European sanctions,” yet clarity on how these sanctions apply to Lebanon in this context remains unexplained. Qassem further stressed the importance of Iranian solidarity during the funerals, noting, “Even as roads were blocked, Iranians poured in to honor our martyrs,” citing reports of Iranian delegations crossing borders to participate in the event.
Moreover, Qassem warned the U.S. and Israel against military actions, stating, “Any military adventurism against Iran will unleash catastrophic consequences across the region.” This sentiment was echoed by other high-ranking Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who attended the funerals and subsequently met with Qassem, reinforcing the strong ties between Iran and Lebanese Resistance.
Sheikh Naim Qassem has reiterated the need to restore flights between Iran and Lebanon, presenting it as essential for bilateral relations. He issued a warning against U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran, implying serious repercussions for the region. The participation of Iranian officials in Lebanon underscores the enduring cooperation between the two nations.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com