Lebanon seized $2.5 million in cash at Beirut airport, allegedly intended for Hezbollah. A passenger from Turkey was detained after concealing the money. Following previous restrictions on Iranian airline operations, protests erupted over the actions taken against Hezbollah. The political situation in Lebanon is further complicated by President Aoun’s election, which signals a potential shift in how Hezbollah’s role is perceived.
Lebanese authorities seized $2.5 million in cash at Beirut Rafic Hariri Airport from a traveler arriving from Turkey. The passenger concealed the funds, and the Lebanese Customs Directorate apprehended him under directives from the public prosecutor’s office. Although the Finance Ministry did not specify the intended recipient of the money, sources indicated that the cash was destined for Hezbollah.
This incident follows Lebanon’s recent decision to prevent two Iranian airlines, Mahan Air and Iran Air, from operating flights into Beirut, amid concerns over suspected fund smuggling to Hezbollah by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Protests erupted in response to this ban, leading to a significant police presence when demonstrators gathered along the airport road on February 13, 2024. Tear gas was deployed and over 25 protesters were arrested.
Hezbollah, founded in 1982 to resist Israeli occupation, has transitioned into a dominant political force in Lebanon. The organization sustained considerable losses in its ongoing conflict with Israel, particularly during intense fighting that began on October 8, 2023, culminating in a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on November 27, 2024. The election of Joseph Aoun, a Western-backed leader, as president marked another setback for Hezbollah and Iran’s influence in Lebanon.
Moreover, the newly appointed cabinet by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has indicated a shift in policy. The recently endorsed ministerial statement notably omitted references to “armed resistance,” a term used historically to recognize Hezbollah’s role, illustrating a significant change in the framing of Lebanon’s political discussions regarding the group.
The recent seizure of $2.5 million linked to Hezbollah at Beirut airport underscores ongoing tensions involving the group, Iran, and Lebanon’s political dynamics. Following the election of Joseph Aoun and the formation of a new cabinet, the treatment of Hezbollah’s presence may be evolving, potentially altering the landscape of Lebanese governance. This incident illustrates the intricate balance of power and influence that continues to shape Lebanon’s political environment.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
