Iraq Boosts Flights to Lebanon for Hassan Nasrallah’s Public Funeral

Iraq has increased flights to Lebanon to accommodate the rising number of Iraqi travelers attending Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral on February 23. Due to sold-out tickets on Middle East Airlines, additional flights from Iraqi Airways are being scheduled. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike, and his burial was conducted under security precautions.

In response to heightened demand for travel ahead of the public funeral of Hezbollah’s late Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, Iraq has increased its flights to Lebanon. A source indicated that these additional flights would facilitate the journey for hundreds of Iraqis wishing to attend the funeral, scheduled for February 23.

As tickets for Middle East Airlines from Baghdad to Beirut have become unavailable, the Iraqi government has taken steps to address this surge in demand. Iraqi Minister of Transport Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi announced the initiation of two additional daily flights by Iraqi Airways, beginning on February 21.

Hassan Nasrallah was reportedly killed on September 27, 2024, in an Israeli airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut. In light of security concerns that complicated public gatherings, Hezbollah had initially conducted a secret burial for him, termed a “wadi’a,” which permits relocation under certain conditions. Hezbollah’s current Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, later confirmed the public funeral date following the ceasefire agreement with Israel, which had been extended from January 27.

The Iraqi government’s decision to increase flights to Lebanon ahead of Hassan Nasrallah’s funeral reflects a significant demand as many Iraqis plan to attend. The logistical adjustments, including new Iraqi Airways flights, aim to accommodate this influx of travelers. Nasrallah’s death and subsequent burial practices highlight the profound impact of political tensions in the region.

Original Source: shafaq.com