Iran has suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 due to security conditions at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport, following a request from Lebanese authorities. This move has sparked protests and political criticisms within Lebanon amid rising tensions and denied permissions for flights. Iranian officials ensure care for stranded passengers and await further developments regarding security in Beirut.
The Iranian Civil Aviation Organization’s head, Hossein Pourfarzaneh, announced the suspension of all flights from Iran to Lebanon until February 18, citing security concerns at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This decision follows a formal request from Lebanese authorities based on an exceptional security assessment amid rising tensions in the country.
Pourfarzaneh expressed that Tehran is actively monitoring the situation, waiting for developments that may clarify the security status by the set date. Responding to questions about unverified Israeli threats concerning Iranian flights, he assured that no formal warnings had been received regarding such matters.
The flight suspension has escalated tensions in Lebanon, where the cancellation of a flight for Lebanese pilgrims has fueled speculation regarding external influences from Israel and the United States, especially in light of the upcoming funeral of Resistance Leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. Protests erupted, with thousands demonstrating against the suspensions and blocking access to the airport.
Reports indicate that Lebanese authorities denied landing permissions for Iranian flights on two occasions last week, leading Iranian officials to advocate for national sovereignty and independence from external pressures. The situation has garnered backlash from various groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah, which has demanded the government reverse its ban on Iranian lands at Beirut airport.
Further, Pourfarzaneh indicated that stranded passengers at Iran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport are being accommodated in nearby hotels, emphasizing Iran’s responsibility to care for both its citizens and those from Lebanon. He reaffirmed the commitment to resume normal flights once the security situation improves around Beirut’s airport.
In summary, Iran’s suspension of flights to Lebanon until February 18 is rooted in security concerns from Lebanese authorities, amidst escalating tensions in the region. Protests have emerged in Lebanon, with calls for the reversal of the flight ban by political groups. Iranian officials have taken measures to assist stranded passengers while closely observing the evolving situation, reiterating their commitment to resuming operations once conditions allow.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
