Lebanese authorities have taken decisive steps to curb Hezbollah’s influence at Rafik Hariri International Airport by revoking the security clearances of numerous airport workers affiliated with the group. The move, first reported by Asharq al-Awsat newspaper on Friday, marks a significant shift in airport security operations as officials seek to limit Hezbollah's reach within the facility.

According to an informed airport source, over 30 employees have been notified that their security clearances have expired and will not be renewed. The decision affects baggage handlers, personnel responsible for loading and unloading aircraft, and employees in baggage inspection and lost-and-found departments.

"The decision came as a shock to those affected, especially since many had worked at the airport for years with unrestricted movement," the source said, describing the dismissed employees as "Hezbollah's eyes and ears inside the airport, providing a constant flow of intelligence on travelers."

Additionally, the source revealed that Hezbollah had previously exerted pressure to secure employment and access permits for its loyalists, ensuring that only individuals approved by the group could receive such authorizations.

"This is how Hezbollah expanded its control over the airport for decades," the source added.

The crackdown follows Lebanon’s recent decision to ban Iranian civilian aircraft from landing at Rafik Hariri International Airport and to impose stricter baggage inspections on passengers arriving from Iraq or transiting from Iran. These measures were implemented after authorities discovered undeclared cash, believed to be Iranian funds intended for Hezbollah. The restrictions sparked protests from Hezbollah supporters, who staged week-long demonstrations in February, blocking airport access roads and causing disruptions to flight schedules.

The effort to limit Hezbollah’s reach extends beyond civilian workers. A senior security official told Asharq al-Awsat that similar measures will also target security personnel within airport divisions, including customs officers, Internal Security Forces (ISF) personnel, and General Security officers.

“Many individuals are suspected of having facilitated Hezbollah’s activities over the past period, whether out of political loyalty or financial incentives,” the official said. 

The official described the ongoing changes as a “major security shake-up” aimed at replacing those under suspicion. The restructuring depends on internal reshuffles within Lebanon’s security agencies.

“The newly appointed security chiefs now have a clear picture of the situation. Upcoming personnel rotations will certainly include units operating at the airport,” the official confirmed.