Iran ties Lebanese flights to reciprocal access

Iran will deny Lebanon’s request for flights to Tehran, an official said Friday, as long as the Lebanese government prevents Iranian airliners from landing in Beirut.

The announcement comes after Lebanon halted flights by Iranian carriers, including Mahan Air and Iran Air.

Saeed Chalondari, CEO of Imam Khomeini Airport City, after demanding reciprocity from Lebanon, confirmed that a Tehran–Beirut flight scheduled for 7:30 a.m. on Friday was canceled after Lebanese aviation authorities denied the permit.

He added that Lebanon has announced a suspension of Iranian flights until February 18, directing passengers to use Lebanese carriers instead.

“We do not agree with this decision,” Chalondari said. “If there are to be flights between the two countries, they must be on a reciprocal basis.” Adding that Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are pursuing discussions with Lebanon to resolve the matter.

The dispute follows accusations from Israel that Iran’s IRGC Quds Force has been using civilian flights to smuggle funds to Hezbollah via Beirut International Airport. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said on X that Iran and Hezbollah were exploiting commercial flights to transfer money for attacks on Israel.

The flight ban has sparked tensions in Lebanon. Images circulated on social media showed Hezbollah supporters blocking roads to Beirut Airport in protest against the refusal to allow Mahan Air to land.

Lebanese media also reported that flights arriving from Iraq are undergoing increased inspections to prevent potential cash transfers to Hezbollah.

The standoff comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, with both sides accusing each other of violations. Israel says Hezbollah is rearming, while Lebanon accuses Israel of continued military actions that have caused civilian casualties.