Lebanon says foreign parties assured Israel won't target Beirut airport if civilian use continues

Lebanese Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny said Thursday he received assurances from foreign parties that Israel would not target Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut "as long as its activities remain civilian." The National News Agency, citing the transport minister, said he "received assurances from foreign diplomatic sources and relevant authorities (which it did not name) that the road leading to Rafik Hariri Airport, as well as the airport grounds themselves, would remain untouched in any conflict, as long as their use is limited to civilian activities."

Civilian protection

Rasamny has intensified contacts with relevant parties to ensure the airport and access road remain neutral, guaranteeing passenger safety and continuity of operations, according to the agency. On March 5, Lebanon's Health Ministry said three people were killed and six others injured in two Israeli airstrikes targeting two cars on the Beirut airport road.

Ceasefire dispute

The escalation comes despite the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran. While Pakistani mediators and Tehran said the ceasefire includes Lebanon, Washington and Tel Aviv denied it. The expanded Israeli offensive on Lebanon since March 2 has killed 1,888 people and wounded 6,092 others, according to the Health Ministry.

Regional context

The assurance for the airport's safety is significant as Beirut's Rafik Hariri International Airport is the country's only commercial airport, serving as a vital lifeline for civilians and humanitarian operations. Any strike on the facility would severely impact Lebanon's ability to receive aid and evacuate civilians.