Hezbollah seeks to control Beirut International Airport

Hezbollah is aiming to subtly take control of Beirut international airport according to a new report authored by Tal Beeri. Its major objective at the moment is to take control of the international airport in Beirut,” said the report.

This would constitute another step in the terror organization's attempt to control border crossings and spread its influence in Lebanon. The report was compiled by the Alma Research and Education Center, titled ‘How is Hezbollah Attempting to Seize Control of Beirut's International Airport’.

Hezbollah uses civilian cover to achieve its objectives. “This objective is being personally pursued by Hashem Safi al-Din, the head of the Hezbollah Executive Council, and Haj Fadi (Muhammad Jaafar Qusayr), the leader of Unit 4400 (Hezbollah's smuggling unit),” the report says. It goes on to note that Hezbollah works through prominent individuals to achieve its goals.

Hezbollah has increased its power and influence in Lebanon over the last decades. In addition, there are currently tensions on the northern border with Hezbollah.

The terrorist group wants more control of the airport and other crossings because of its involvement in various activities such as smuggling of fuel and drugs; as well as weapons and military equipment, the report notes.