Hezbollah protesters clashed with the Lebanese army in Beirut over Iranian flight restrictions at the airport. The army used tear gas to disperse crowds attempting to breach security barriers. Following attacks on a UN convoy, tensions heightened, leading to numerous arrests as authorities tightened security around the airport.
On February 15, the Lebanese army utilized tear gas and fired warning shots to disperse protesters from Hezbollah in Beirut. These demonstrations erupted in response to the Lebanese authorities’ decision to bar Iranian planes from landing at the Rafic Hariri International Airport. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in a tense standoff with military forces, who were stationed to safeguard the airport area.
The situation escalated as protesters attempted to breach army barricades, prompting military action to prevent them from reaching the airport. Security measures were intensified in central Beirut, particularly around the airport, following violent clashes the previous day involving masked protesters targeting a UN peacekeeping convoy, resulting in property damage and injuries.
Hezbollah officials confirmed that the protests centered on the Iranian planes being blocked, arguing that the Lebanese government’s actions were influenced by U.S. and Israeli pressure. Notable tensions arose with accusations that Hezbollah and Iran were using the airport for illicit purposes, a claim made by an Israeli military spokesperson.
Hezbollah’s deputy political council chief condemned the government’s decision, labeling it as an affront to national sovereignty. Despite attempts by the Lebanese Prime Minister to facilitate the repatriation of Lebanese citizens from Tehran, he stressed that the government will not condone any disturbances at the airport.
After the outbreak of violence, Lebanon’s Interior Minister announced over 25 arrests connected to the confrontations involving the UN convoy, indicating significant disorder and rising tensions between the Lebanese army, anti-government protesters, and Hezbollah supporters.
The clashes in Beirut illustrate the escalating tensions surrounding Hezbollah’s protests against the Lebanese government’s refusal to allow Iranian flights to land. The army’s response, combined with the backdrop of alleged foreign interference and prior violent incidents, underscores the complexities at play in Lebanon’s political landscape. The situation remains volatile as security forces enforce measures to maintain order.
Original Source: efe.com
