NNA - In an interview with Al-Hadath news channel, Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny, affirmed that Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut was well-secured, stressing that safeguarding the airport remains one of the ministry’s foremost priorities.
The Works Minister also noted that security measures were being implemented continuously in coordination with the relevant authorities, emphasizing that efforts are underway to ensure the airport’s security through diplomatic channels as part of a broader strategy to confront any potential threats.
Addressing concerns about smuggling attempts through the facility, the Minister asserted that the airport’s security apparatus operated with an “iron fist”, emphasizing that multiple smuggling attempts have been thwarted and publicly disclosed. He also underscored that the airport was solely under the authority of the Lebanese state, affirming: “No other entity, neither directly nor indirectly, exercises control over its operations.”
Rasamny also outlined key ongoing reforms at the airport, revealing that the ministry has strengthened its administrative structure by appointing separate directors for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the airport itself, a move that replaces the previous arrangement of a single official holding both posts.
Rasamny further announced that a new plan would be launched in the coming months to equip the airport security unit with cutting-edge technology, thereby reducing reliance on manpower.
Commenting on the status of Iranian air traffic, Rasamny confirmed that the ban on Iranian aircraft landing in Lebanon remains in effect, stating, “We have not requested anything from the Iranian side, nor are there any ongoing negotiations on the matter.”
Rasamny further reiterated that all entry and exit operations at Beirut Airport are subject to strict oversight, adding, “There is no smuggling taking place because we monitor everything with exceptional precision.”
On the revival of René Mouawad Airport in Qlayaat, North Lebanon, Rasamny announced that the ministry had commissioned engineering consultancy firm Dar Al-Handasah to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to determine costs and potential uses. “We expect results in the coming months. The airport may not be operated by the state, but through a public-private partnership,” Rasamny explained.
Dismissing speculation over potential hurdles, the Minister clarified: “There are no objections or obstructions to the airport’s reopening. The decision has been made and the process is proceeding smoothly.”
Rasamny then described Qlayaat as a secondary airport to support Beirut, adding, “A country like Lebanon cannot rely on a single airport.”
Regarding the Port of Beirut, the Minister said that parts of its operations were currently managed by a private company CMA CGM, while the ministry plans reviewing certain legislative proposals in Parliament. He noted that a temporary committee is currently handling the port’s management, while the ministry works on establishing a regulatory authority or independent board to define its legal and administrative framework.
As for border crossings, Rasamny reiterated that all legal border points were under full control of the Lebanese state, stating that enhancing security capabilities at these crossings is a priority, followed by economic objectives. He also revealed a plan to deploy new scanner systems at the ports of Beirut and Tripoli in the coming months to assist customs authorities in their anti-smuggling operations.
Looking ahead to the upcoming winter season, and in light of recurring flooding and traffic congestion, Rasamny acknowledged the severe deterioration of Lebanon’s infrastructure, attributing it to a lack of serious investment. “There can be no real solutions without such investment,” he stated.
However, the Public Works Minister added that the ministry was holding intensive meetings with municipalities and relevant ministries to draft a comprehensive winter preparedness plan aimed at mitigating the expected impact of seasonal crises.
============R.H.
