On September 28, 2024, the Israeli army executed a cyber operation by reportedly hacking into the control tower of Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This action culminated in threats directed at an Iranian civilian aircraft that was attempting to land. In light of these threats, the Lebanese Ministry of Transport quickly issued directives to airport authorities to prevent the Iranian plane from entering Lebanese airspace. The incident underscores the heightened tensions in the region, particularly between Israel and Iran, amid ongoing military hostilities.
Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari emphasized that the military would not allow any weapons transfers to Hezbollah, which he claimed could occur through the airport. He stated unequivocally that the airport must remain a facility for civilian use only and warned against allowing hostile aircraft carrying weapons to land. This assertion aligns with Israel’s long-standing concerns about Iranian influence in Lebanon and the support provided to Hezbollah, which Israel considers a significant security threat.
In contrast, Lebanese Minister of Public Works and Transport Ali Hamieh denied Israeli accusations that Beirut International Airport was being utilized for arms deliveries to Hezbollah. Hamieh insisted that the airport operates exclusively for civilian purposes and noted that any military air traffic is strictly subject to the approval of the Lebanese army. This response illustrates the Lebanese government’s effort to maintain its sovereignty and control over air traffic within its borders.
The situation has further intensified with Israeli claims of having “liquidated” Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah during a recent airstrike in Beirut’s southern suburbs. This assertion adds another layer to the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, which has escalated significantly since the onset of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The humanitarian impact has been devastating, with reports indicating nearly 41,600 casualties, predominantly among women and children, following a cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7. This complex geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, posing challenges for regional stability.
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