On September 28, 2024, an extraordinary incident unfolded as Israel reportedly compromised the communications system at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport. This led to a dramatic intervention involving an Iranian civilian aircraft.
The Incident
An Iranian cargo plane operated by Qasem Air, designated as Flight No. QFZ9964, was preparing to land at Beirut airport when Israeli forces allegedly intercepted the control tower’s radio communications. They issued a warning to the flight, stating that it would not be allowed to land and threatening military action against the airport should the plane attempt to proceed.
Lebanese Response
In swift reaction, Lebanon’s Transport Minister, Ali Hamieh, intervened, ordering the prohibition of the Iranian aircraft’s landing. The Lebanese Ministry of Transport directed airport authorities to deny the plane entry into Lebanese airspace in response to the threats posed by Israel. Reports from Israeli media indicated that the aircraft subsequently turned around and returned to Tehran.
Israeli Statements
Earlier that day, Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari had declared that Israel “will not allow any weapons to be transferred to Hezbollah,” asserting that this included any operations involving Beirut International Airport. He emphasized the airport’s role as a facility for civilian use, underscoring the necessity of maintaining this status.
Lebanese Denial
In contrast, Minister Hamieh rejected the Israeli allegations that the airport was being utilized for military purposes. He affirmed that Beirut International Airport is “exclusively civilian” and that any military-related air traffic must receive prior approval from the Lebanese army.
Context
This incident occurred amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. On the same day, the Israeli army claimed to have conducted an airstrike that resulted in the elimination of Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut’s southern suburbs. However, this assertion remains unverified by independent sources.
The situation continues to be precarious, with ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, exacerbated by Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | September 28, 2024 |
| Flight Details | Qasem Air, Flight No. QFZ9964 |
| Israeli Threat | Threat to attack the airport if the aircraft attempted to land |
| Lebanese Minister | Ali Hamieh |
| Context | Heightened tensions between Israel and Hezbollah |
