Uncovering Hezbollah’s Alleged Weapon Crates Hidden in Beirut Airport: Insights on Rockets and Missiles

The Telegraph article published online on Sunday suggested that Hezbollah was storing Iranian missiles and explosives at Beirut airport. This raised concerns about potential security threats, especially amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. However, senior Lebanese officials strongly denied these claims during a visit organized for the press and diplomats on Monday.

According to airport staff and sources, there is a suspected weapons cache within the airport premises where various Iranian-made weapons are stored. These weapons include artillery rockets, ballistic and anti-tank missiles, as well as short-range ballistic missiles. The article also mentioned the presence of senior Hezbollah members at the airport, raising suspicions among whistleblowers about corruption and threats to their families.

Lebanese officials immediately refuted the allegations and invited diplomats and journalists to visit the airport to dispel the rumors. They showcased various warehouses containing goods from Iran and other destinations, emphasizing that the airport met international standards. The Transport Minister led the visit and condemned the article as part of a “psychological war” against Lebanon.

Despite the denials from Lebanese officials, concerns persisted over the alleged presence of Hezbollah weapons at the airport. Israel, in particular, has accused Hezbollah of converting rockets into precision missiles near Beirut airport. The recent escalation in cross-border tensions between Hezbollah and Israel has heightened fears of a broader conflict, with the Israeli army warning of potential civilian casualties if Hezbollah targeted Israeli civilians.

While Hezbollah did not comment on the allegations, the Israeli army reiterated its stance against Hezbollah’s weapon storage near civilian neighborhoods. The history of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, including previous bombings of Beirut airport, added to the anxiety surrounding the situation. Amidst the ongoing tensions, passengers continued to arrive at Beirut airport for summer travel, dismissing reports of weapons caches and emphasizing their belief in Lebanon’s safety and hospitality.