Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport will temporarily suspend operations on Sunday, February 23, 2025, during the funeral of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority has announced.
Temporary Airport Closure Details
According to an official statement, all flight takeoffs and landings will be halted from 12:00 p.m. (1000 GMT) to 4:00 p.m. This measure aims to accommodate the large-scale funeral procession expected to draw massive crowds in Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold.
Background on Nasrallah’s Assassination
Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike on September 27, as part of Israel’s intensified military campaign against Hezbollah following months of escalating cross-border clashes. His assassination marked a significant shift in regional tensions, with Hashem Safieddine, a senior Hezbollah figure and Nasrallah’s chosen successor, also being killed in an Israeli raid in October.
Funeral Arrangements & High-Profile Attendance
The funeral ceremony will commence at 1:00 p.m. at a sports stadium in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The event will feature a keynote address by current Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem, followed by a public procession to Nasrallah’s burial site, strategically located between the old and new airport roads for security reasons.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has confirmed its participation at a “high level,” though specific officials attending have not been disclosed. Qassem has urged widespread participation, emphasizing that the funeral should serve as a demonstration of Hezbollah’s continued strength and resilience.
Security Concerns & International Advisories
The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon has issued a security advisory, urging American citizens to avoid the airport vicinity and surrounding areas during the funeral. Hezbollah has reported that representatives from 79 countries will be involved in the commemoration, either at an official or grassroots level.
Nasrallah & Safieddine’s Final Resting Places
Nasrallah’s burial was initially postponed due to security concerns, but he will now be laid to rest in Beirut. Meanwhile, Hashem Safieddine will be buried in his hometown of Deir Qanun, located in southern Lebanon.
Regional Implications & Ceasefire Agreement
Following Nasrallah’s assassination, a November 27 ceasefire agreement temporarily halted two months of intensified conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The period saw Hezbollah suffer significant losses, including high-ranking commanders, raising questions about the group’s long-term strategy and leadership transition.
