Lebanon has decided to extend the suspension of flights to and from Iran as part of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of travelers following recent security developments in the region.

The decision was made during a meeting chaired by President Joseph Aoun to discuss the recent security developments. The meeting was attended by the Prime Minister, as well as the Ministers of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Public Works and Transport, and the Head of the Airport Security Service.

The extension was announced by the presidency's spokesperson, Najat Sharafeddine, who stated that Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji has been tasked with following up on communications aimed at ensuring the safe return of travelers stranded in Iran and monitoring compliance with the necessary procedures regarding aircraft inspections.

She also noted that flights will be arranged for Lebanese nationals in Tehran to return home, and these will be overseen by the Minister of Public Works.

Additionally, President Joseph Aoun has issued strict instructions to the security forces to prevent the closure of the airport road.

This latest decision builds on a previous measure announced by Lebanon last week, which initially suspended flights to and from Iran until February 18.

The flight ban was implemented amid concerns relayed by Israel to the United States regarding potential smuggling activities involving Hezbollah. Israel has long accused Hezbollah of using Beirut's airport to transport funds and weapons, particularly in collaboration with Iran's Quds Force. According to sources, Israel had warned that it would target the airport if Iranian flights were permitted to land, leading Lebanese authorities to block two flights from Iran last week.

Hezbollah supporters in Lebanon responded to the flight ban by protesting, blocking roads to the airport, and accusing the government of yielding to external pressure from Israel and the United States.