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Crisis in Beirut.. Lebanon Maintains Inspection Procedures Despite Iranian Protest
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Lebanon's firm stance in implementing comprehensive inspection procedures reflects its keenness to prevent the exploitation of its airports for smuggling suspicious money or materials
Diplomatic disputes between Beirut and Tehran escalated over the inspection of an Iranian diplomat's luggage aboard a Mahan Air flight, despite Lebanese authorities' assurance that the procedures are routine.
The Iranian parliament's National Security Committee intervened in the issue, with its spokesman Ibrahim Rezaei stating they are examining information about security conduct at Rafiq Hariri Airport.
Rezaei called on the Iranian Foreign Ministry "to follow up on the matter quickly and ensure it doesn't recur," urging the Lebanese government to refrain from "any suspicious actions that appear influenced by Western countries, given the sensitive circumstances in the region."
Lebanese Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi explained that airport authorities found operational funds and documents for the Iranian embassy, emphasizing that all travelers are subject to inspection without exception.
The Lebanese Foreign Ministry issued a statement confirming it received clarification from the Iranian embassy regarding the contents of the two bags, explaining that they contained documents and funds to cover embassy expenses.
These procedures come as part of the Lebanese Army's supervision of airport operations since October 2024, to prevent any breaches that Israel might exploit to disrupt air traffic.
Levant-Agencies
