Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and his Lebanese counterpart, Youssef Rajji, discussed strategies to resolve the "snag" affecting civil aviation between Iran and Lebanon. The conversation was part of a phone call in which both ministers also examined bilateral relations and recent developments in the West Asia region.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the dialogue was confirmed in a statement from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, highlighting the readiness of both sides to engage in "constructive talks based on goodwill." The ministers emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral relations in areas of mutual interest and respect. Araghchi extended his congratulations to Rajji on his new role as Lebanon's foreign minister, expressing hopes for the success of the new Lebanese government.

The issue arose after Lebanese aviation authorities prevented an Iranian passenger flight from landing at Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport. This action followed an Israeli allegation that Iran was using the airport to "smuggle funds to Hezbollah." In response, Lebanon's Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced the temporary rescheduling of certain flights, including those from Iran, as part of enhanced security measures until February 18.

Iran's Civil Aviation Organization reported cancellations of permits for flights by Iran's Mahan Air on February 13 and 14 and Iran Air on February 18. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei later condemned Israel's "threat against the civilian plane carrying Lebanese citizens" and criticized the disruption of normal flights as part of Israel's ongoing violations of international principles and regulations.