In response to high demand, Iraq has increased flights to Lebanon for Hasan Nasrallah’s funeral set for February 23. Iraqi airlines will operate two additional daily flights following the sell-out of tickets for Lebanese carriers. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike in 2024, with a complex burial history leading to this public memorial.
Iraq has responded to a surge in demand for travel to Lebanon by increasing its flight services in anticipation of the public funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, the late Secretary-General of Hezbollah. The funeral is scheduled for February 23, prompting hundreds of Iraqis to plan their travel to Lebanon. A source informed Shafaq News that the need for additional flights arose after all tickets for Lebanese airlines from Baghdad to Beirut were sold out.
In an effort to accommodate this influx, Iraqi Minister of Transport Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi directed Iraqi Airways to add two extra daily flights to Beirut, starting February 21. This measure aims to facilitate the travel of those wishing to attend the significant event honoring Nasrallah. He was killed on September 27, 2024, in an Israeli airstrike conducted in southern Beirut.
After his death, Hezbollah initially buried him in a restricted manner due to security issues that limited public mourning. This burial, known as a “wadi’a,” allows for relocation of the deceased under certain conditions. The current Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, later announced the official date for the funeral to take place five days after a ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, initially set for January 27.
In conclusion, Iraq’s increase in flights to Lebanon demonstrates the high demand for attendance at Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral, scheduled for February 23. The timely addition of flights by Iraqi Airways, as instructed by the Minister of Transport, underscores the significant interest from Iraqis to pay their respects. This event follows a complex history surrounding Nasrallah’s burial and marks an important moment for Hezbollah and its supporters.
Original Source: shafaq.com
