The story: The new Lebanese government’s decision to bar Iranian commercial airliners has stirred controversy in both Beirut and Tehran. Iran and Hezbollah blame Israel for the measure, pointing to Israeli allegations that Tehran flies in cash to its Lebanese ally.

The suspension of Iranian flights was initially said to last until Feb. 18—coinciding with Israel’s expected withdrawal from Lebanon under a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. However, the restrictions have since...