Iran suspends flights to Lebanon amid security concerns at Beirut airport

Iran has temporarily suspended all flights to Lebanon until February 18 due to security concerns at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport, following a formal request from Lebanese authorities.

Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization, confirmed the decision during a press briefing, citing the "exceptional security situation in Beirut and the cancellation of all international flights" as the basis for the suspension, Caliber.Az reports via Iranian media.

“In light of the current circumstances, Lebanese officials have requested that Iran suspend its flights until February 18,” Pourfarzaneh stated, emphasizing Tehran’s adherence to diplomatic protocols and ongoing monitoring of the situation.

The suspension comes amid escalating tensions in Lebanon, where authorities recently canceled a flight meant to transport Lebanese pilgrims from Tehran to Beirut. The move has sparked speculation about external influences, particularly from Israel and the United States, given the upcoming funeral of a high-ranking Hezbollah leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

When questioned about unverified Israeli threats to target Iranian aircraft bound for Lebanon, Pourfarzaneh clarified that no official warnings had been received by Iranian authorities. He stressed that the suspension was solely based on Lebanon’s security assessment.

The decision has triggered widespread protests in Lebanon, with thousands of citizens blocking roads to Beirut’s airport on the night of February 13. Demonstrations continued over the following days as protesters voiced opposition to the flight cancellations.

A Lebanese source informed AFP that Lebanon had twice denied permission for Iranian flights to land last week. Iranian officials have reportedly urged Lebanon to uphold its national sovereignty and resist external pressure in its decision-making.

The situation has drawn strong reactions from various Lebanese political factions, including Hezbollah, which issued a statement urging the Lebanese government to overturn its decision and prevent "the Israeli enemy from imposing its dictates."

Meanwhile, Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization has taken steps to assist stranded passengers at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, providing them with accommodations at airport hotels. Pourfarzaneh reiterated Tehran’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of both Iranian and Lebanese travelers.

Iran has pledged to resume normal flight operations as soon as security conditions in Beirut improve.

By Vugar Khalilov