According to local TV channel MTV, the arrival of an Iranian plane unveiled years of smuggling at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.
Three customs control teams operate at Beirut Airport. While these teams are traditionally sectarian, one team, composed entirely of three Shiite controllers, has allegedly been facilitating the smuggling of goods and bags linked to Hezbollah and its officials for years. Under the protection of Hezbollah officials, this team has reportedly resisted any attempts at replacement.
According to MTV, The controllers are accused of enabling the passage of smuggled phones, quantities of gold — primarily from Turkey and Dubai — and other goods and bags of money, claiming these items are related to Hezbollah. In return, they reportedly receive financial rewards, allowing them to accumulate significant wealth. Two team members, Hussein Haider Ahmad and Ali Zain Abdeen, are said to have purchased multiple properties in Greece.
Reports suggest that Hezbollah officials and smugglers strategically schedule their arrivals in Lebanon during the shifts of this monitoring team. Additionally, Hezbollah officials are alleged to have frequent access to restricted airport areas. Most recently, Ali Khalifa visited Beirut Airport on Thursday, coinciding with the arrival of an Iranian plane.
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