Iran has restricted Lebanese aircraft from landing to repatriate stranded citizens due to reciprocal flight bans following an Israeli threat. Lebanon blocked an Iranian flight, accusing Tehran of smuggling funds to Hezbollah. As tensions rise, dozens remain stuck in Iran, and both countries emphasize the need for mutual agreements on flight operations.
Iran has prohibited Lebanese planes from repatriating stranded Lebanese citizens from Iran, resulting in a diplomatic disagreement. This decision stems from Lebanon’s recent termination of an Iranian flight, which was halted following an alleged Israeli threat to attack. The situation escalated after Lebanon accused Iran of using civilian flights to transport cash intended for arming Hezbollah.
The blockade has left numerous Lebanese pilgrims stranded in Iran for three days after attending a religious event. These citizens were scheduled to return to Beirut via Mahan Air, but their travel was interrupted when Lebanon barred the Iranian plane from landing. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s supposed actions, asserting they violate international law.
In response, Israel’s military spokesperson claimed Iran’s Quds Force and Hezbollah were utilizing civilian aircraft to facilitate the smuggling of funds into Lebanon. He emphasized that Israel will not allow Hezbollah to acquire arms and will employ all necessary measures to maintain a ceasefire agreement preventing arms transfers.
Despite Lebanon’s efforts to solve the issue by dispatching two Middle East Airlines planes to retrieve the stranded citizens, Iran refused to permit their landing unless Iranian flights were authorized to enter Beirut. Iran’s ambassador reiterated this position, indicating a reciprocal approach to the flight permissions.
Further complicating matters, Hezbollah’s representatives urged Lebanese authorities to affirm the nation’s sovereignty over its public facilities, particularly the airport. Meanwhile, protests erupted near Beirut’s airport as a showing of support for Hezbollah’s stance on the matter. In September, Lebanon’s transport ministry had already instructed an Iranian aircraft to avoid its airspace after receiving an Israeli warning regarding a potential forceful reaction if it landed.
The diplomatic standoff between Iran and Lebanon, triggered by an Israeli threat and subsequent flight bans, has resulted in numerous Lebanese citizens being stranded in Iran. While both nations control their travel permissions in a tit-for-tat manner, the situation raises concerns about national sovereignty and international law. The persistence of this issue reflects ongoing tensions and challenges in the region’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
