AiBotBEIRUT, Lebanon – A contentious situation unfolded in the Lebanese capital on Tuesday, as clashes broke out between supporters of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement and the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) on the old airport road.
According to eyewitnesses, a group of Hezbollah supporters had blocked the road, causing significant disruptions to traffic and daily activities in the surrounding area. The protesters, who were primarily composed of Hezbollah loyalists, had gathered to express their discontent with the LAF’s recent actions against suspected Hezbollah militants.
In a swift response to the blockade, LAF forces were deployed to the scene, where they issued warnings to the protesters to disperse. However, the protesters refused to comply, prompting the LAF to fire tear gas to disperse the crowd.
The use of tear gas by the LAF resulted in several injuries among the protesters, with many others being treated for respiratory issues. Witnesses reported that the situation rapidly escalated, with protesters launching rocks and other projectiles at the LAF forces.
The old airport road, a vital thoroughfare in Beirut, was subsequently closed to traffic, sparking frustration among commuters and locals. The Lebanese Interior Ministry has since dispatched additional security forces to the area to maintain order and ensure the safety of civilians.
Hezbollah, which enjoys a significant following in Lebanon, has been a key player in the country’s politics for decades. The movement’s strong ties to Iran have sparked tensions with the West and neighboring Arab states, while its involvement in regional conflicts has raised concerns about its impact on Lebanon’s stability.
Meanwhile, the LAF has been working to bolster its authority and independence in the face of growing competition from Hezbollah and other militias. The recent clashes on the old airport road represent a rare instance of overt confrontation between the LAF and Hezbollah supporters.
The situation in Beirut remains tense, with ongoing protests and clashes reported in the vicinity of the old airport road. The LAF has pledged to maintain order and protect civilians, while Hezbollah has yet to issue a public statement on the incident. As tensions persist, concern is growing about the potential for further escalation and the impact on Lebanon’s fragile stability.