A reported wave of dismissals at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (AIB) is drawing attention, with claims that up to 30 employees, mainly baggage handlers, have had their airport access revoked in recent weeks.
Despite continued denials from both Hezbollah and airport authorities, the group’s influence at AIB has long been an open secret in Beirut political circles © Mena Today
A reported wave of dismissals at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (AIB) is drawing attention, with claims that up to 30 employees, mainly baggage handlers, have had their airport access revoked in recent weeks.
According to the pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat, the move is part of an effort to "weaken Hezbollah's influence" at the airport, citing anonymous sources who allege that the dismissed staff were “the eyes and ears of the party” inside AIB.
The report has sparked speculation about a broader political shift at Lebanon’s main airport, which has long faced accusations—strongly denied by both the airport administration and Hezbollah—of serving as a logistical hub for the Shiite group’s regional activities, including the alleged transfer of weapons and cash.
The Lebanese Ministry of Public Works initially dismissed the story as unsubstantiated media rumors.
However, after further inquiries, the ministry declared the information “not true.” Yet, two anonymous sources working at AIB told L'Orient-Le Jour that a number of accreditations had indeed been revoked recently, particularly following the March 13 removal of Fadi el-Hassan, AIB’s interim president, known for his close ties to Hezbollah.
One source noted that the dismissals were "expected" in light of the recent political shift brought about by the formation of a new government under Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
While official channels have offered no confirmation, and the exact number of affected staff remains unclear, the developments highlight ongoing concerns about Hezbollah’s role in key Lebanese institutions.
Despite continued denials from both Hezbollah and airport authorities, the group’s influence at AIB has long been an open secret in Beirut political circles
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