Baghdad to Beirut flights have been fully booked as thousands of people are gearing up to witness the funeral of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, which will be held on Sunday. The high demand comes after a call by pro-Iran factions to mobilize supporters to ensure a large turnout for the funeral procession, a milestone in the region’s political scene.
The unprecedented demand for flights has resulted in skyrocketing ticket fares and packed airlines, with many rushing to book last-minute travel. It is reported that extra flights are being organized to cater to the number of mourners traveling from Iraq and other neighboring nations.
Hezbollah, a prominent Iran-aligned militant and political group, has had close links with groups in the Middle East, especially in Iraq, Syria, and Iran. The massive turnout anticipated for the funeral reflects Nasrallah’s clout and the very deep relationship between Hezbollah and its region allies.
As Lebanon prepares for an emotionally charged and politically pivotal funeral, security is being increased in Beirut. Officials expect massive street processions, with sympathizers coming out to pay their respects in what promises to be a watershed moment in Hezbollah’s history.