Lebanon's Civil Aviation Authority has banned an Iranian passenger plane, Mahan Air, from landing at Beirut International Airport. The plane, which was already in Syrian airspace, was forced to turn around and return to Iran. 

According to Arab media, the Lebanese authorities' decision was made under pressure from Israel. Israeli officials reportedly warned Beirut of possible forceful action, including intercepting the plane in mid-air or striking it at the airport, if the landing was allowed. 

The situation has caused a wide resonance in international circles. Shortly before the incident, the press service of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) published a statement in which it directly accuses the Iranian special forces unit "Quds" and the Lebanese group "Hezbollah" of using Beirut International Airport to smuggle weapons and money. 

"In recent weeks, the Iranian Quds Force and the terrorist organization Hezbollah have used civilian flights to transport funds intended to arm Hezbollah and prepare attacks on Israel. The IDF is taking all necessary measures to prevent these actions.", the IDF said in a statement. 

Beirut airport has become a key hub for Tehran-backed smuggling operations, according to Israeli intelligence, which Israeli officials say threaten regional security and violate the ceasefire. 

The Iranian side has so far refrained from making official comments on the incident. Mahan Air, known for its close ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has been at the center of international scandals more than once. In 2019, the United States imposed sanctions on it, accusing it of facilitating the transportation of weapons and military equipment in the Middle East. 

The Lebanese authorities have also yet to provide detailed explanations of the reasons for their decision. In Beirut, the situation has sparked serious political debate, as the Civil Aviation Authority's actions could be perceived as an attempt to avoid an open conflict with Israel. 

Experts say the incident highlights growing tensions in the region. The use of civilian aviation for military purposes is becoming an increasingly pressing issue that requires an international response.