Lebanese authorities confiscated $2.5 million intended for Hezbollah from a traveler at Beirut airport. The incident follows recent restrictions on Iranian airlines linked to funding Hezbollah and highlights tensions regarding Iranian influence in Lebanon. Protests against these restrictions led to significant military intervention. The evolving political landscape under a new Lebanese president further complicates Hezbollah’s role in the country.
Lebanon has seized $2.5 million in cash at Beirut Rafic Hariri Airport, reportedly destined for Hezbollah. The Lebanese Customs Directorate detained a traveler from Turkey who concealed the funds upon arrival. Although the Finance Ministry did not officially link the seizure to Hezbollah, multiple sources indicated that the cash was intended for the organization. The passenger is now under investigation by the Directorate of General Security following directives from the public prosecutor’s office.
This incident follows Lebanon’s recent restrictions on two Iranian airlines, Mahan Air and Iran Air, which were prohibited from landing at Beirut’s airport due to allegations that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was using their flights to transport money to Hezbollah. Protests erupted along the airport’s main road as Hezbollah supporters rallied against this decision, leading to a significant military presence to manage the unrest, including the use of tear gas and over 25 arrests.
Mahan Air is subjected to sanctions from the United States and the European Union due to alleged connections to the IRGC and its role in supplying arms and other resources to Hezbollah. With the closure of Syrian airspace, reports suggest Iran is seeking alternative routes to facilitate its support for the militant group in Lebanon. A U.S. defense official mentioned that Israel has raised concerns about Iran utilizing Turkish nationals for smuggling operations into Beirut.
Hezbollah, established in 1982 to counter Israeli occupation, has transformed from a militia into a dominant political entity within Lebanon. However, the group has suffered significant setbacks during recent confrontations with Israel, including the loss of key leaders. A ceasefire, brokered by the United States, concluded hostilities between the two entities on November 27, 2024.
Joseph Aoun’s election as president in January, supported by Western powers, was considered a significant challenge to Hezbollah’s influence. Aoun pledged to uphold the state’s control over weaponry, a commitment welcomed by Hezbollah’s political adversaries. Additionally, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam’s legislature recently approved a cabinet tasked with drafting a document outlining the government’s priorities, notably omitting references to “armed resistance,” a phrase historically associated with Hezbollah’s presence in Lebanon.
The seizure of $2.5 million at Beirut airport signals ongoing efforts by Lebanese authorities to curb financial support for Hezbollah, amidst rising tensions surrounding Iranian involvement in the region. This incident, coupled with protests against restrictions on Iranian airlines, reflects the complex dynamics of Hezbollah’s political standing and its implications for Lebanon’s future governance under a new administration. The evolving situation emphasizes the importance of monitoring financial channels that could support militant groups.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
