Lebanon's Rafik Hariri Airport Faces Threat Amid Israeli Airstrikes
Lebanon's Minister of Public Works and Transport, Ali Hamieh, has expressed grave concerns regarding the safety of Rafik Hariri International Airport, the country's only airport, amidst escalating Israeli airstrikes. While the Lebanese government has received some reassurances from international contacts that Israel will avoid targeting the airport, Hamieh clarified that these do not constitute guarantees, especially given the ongoing heavy raids in the vicinity since September 23.
The airport, located on the outskirts of Beirut, is crucial for Lebanon's connectivity to the world. Minister Hamieh emphasized the importance of keeping all public transport facilities operational, including the airport, to facilitate the movement of people and goods. He raised concerns over the lack of guarantees from Israel, questioning the reliability of assurances in light of the recent violence that has resulted in over two thousand casualties since the conflict escalated a year ago.
The situation has drawn international attention, with the United States urging Israel not to target the airport or the access roads leading to it. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller underscored the necessity of keeping the airport operational to allow the safe exit of foreign nationals, including American citizens.
In response to Israeli claims that the airport is being used for weapon smuggling by Hezbollah, Minister Hamieh firmly denied these allegations, asserting that all airport operations comply with Lebanese laws and are subject to scrutiny by relevant authorities. He highlighted that any military aircraft must receive approval from the Lebanese Army before operating at the airport.
Additionally, the ongoing conflict has severely impacted the Masnaa border crossing, Lebanon's primary land route to Syria. Following an Israeli airstrike, the crossing has been closed, disrupting the movement of goods and people. Hamieh reported that over 400,000 displaced individuals have crossed into Syria in recent weeks, fleeing the violence caused by intensified Israeli attacks. The closure of this vital crossing has created significant logistical challenges for Lebanon, as it is essential for trade and travel with the Arab world.
