Beirut could become a new hub for the delivery of Iranian weapons to groups like Hezbollah, following the disruption of traditional land routes used by Tehran due to the fall of the Syrian regime.
According to The Times, Iran is reportedly considering the possibility of sending weapons directly through flights to Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport. This strategic shift arises after direct flights between Tehran and Beirut were recently resumed, bypassing Syrian airspace due to rebel control in Damascus.
This potential aerial route, which would involve the smuggling of ballistic missiles and advanced weaponry, could constitute a violation of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, jeopardizing the region’s fragile stability. According to reports cited by The Times, Beirut airport is already being used as a weapons depot by Hezbollah, raising concerns among airport employees and the international community.
In response, Israel has intensified its aerial surveillance and has warned that it will not permit the use of civilian facilities for military activities. According to statements by Israeli army spokesperson Daniel Hagari, any attempt to transport weapons via flights to Beirut will be treated as a direct threat. Additionally, there has been a reported increase in Israeli aerial patrols near the Lebanese airport.
The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime has dealt a blow to Iranian logistics, which historically relied on Syria as a land route to supply Hezbollah. However, Iran and its Lebanese ally are seeking new strategies to continue strengthening their alliance, thereby heightening tensions in a region already marked by prolonged conflicts. Analysts warn that transforming Beirut airport into a logistics hub could make it a military target, further impacting Lebanon’s fragile economy and security.
