On Thursday, Hezbollah supporters protested against a decision to bar two Iranian planes from landing in Beirut, blocking airport access and clashing with military forces. Concurrently, Lebanese authorities arranged to bring back stranded citizens from Tehran while responding to security concerns over potential smuggling via the airport. The situation highlights escalating tensions linked to Hezbollah, Iran, and regional security issues.
On Thursday, supporters of Hezbollah demonstrated against a decision that barred two Iranian planes from landing at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. Protesters blocked access to the airport road and ignited tires, as reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). They waved Hezbollah flags and displayed images of the group’s former Secretary-General, Hassan Nasrallah, along with late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, showcasing their allegiance amid escalating tensions.
As clashes erupted between protesters and Lebanese military forces deployed at the scene, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced efforts to arrange a flight to bring stranded Lebanese passengers back from Tehran. They cited the need to implement additional security measures to ensure the effectiveness of these operations, with specific focus on compliance from airlines.
The Lebanese Ministry of Public Works and Transport revealed that Iranian carrier Mahan Air was informed that the two planned flights to Beirut had been rescheduled, with one initially set for Thursday and another for Friday being postponed to the following week. This rescheduling aligns with a critical deadline for the full implementation of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, following recent hostilities.
Amid the protests, various Lebanese citizens at Tehran’s airport expressed frustration over their situation, calling for immediate action to facilitate their return home. Saeed Chalandri, the CEO of Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport, mentioned that the Lebanese government had not provided the necessary authorization for the scheduled flights.
Israeli military officials have accused Hezbollah of using civilian flights at Beirut Airport for smuggling operations linked to arms supplies. Despite denials from Hezbollah and Lebanese authorities, Israel has intensified scrutiny of activities at the airport, asserting that recent inspections have aimed to enhance security and vigilance against potential violations.
Hezbollah legislator Ibrahim Al Moussawi condemned Israeli threats against Beirut Airport, urging the Lebanese government to prioritize the return of its citizens while rejecting compliance with external pressures. This ongoing geopolitical situation underscores the complicated dynamics surrounding Lebanon’s air traffic and regional tensions.
The protests against the banning of Iranian flights reflect deepening political tensions in Lebanon, as Hezbollah supporters rally against perceived external encroachments on Lebanon’s sovereignty. The protests coincide with Israeli allegations regarding smuggling activities linked to Iran, heightening the urgency for Lebanese authorities to address both domestic frustrations and security concerns. The situation illustrates the intricate interplay between regional politics and national security considerations in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
