Hezbollah accused of smuggling weapons to rebuild influence in Lebanon

BEIRUT — An Israeli security source revealed to Al-Arabiya that Iran-backed Hezbollah is attempting to reestablish its influence in Lebanon by smuggling weapons through Beirut’s airport, seaport, and border crossings.

The source claimed the group is trafficking equipment for drones and precision-guided missiles but noted that Hezbollah remains considerably weakened compared to its strength before the September 2024 hostilities with Israel. The source also warned of the potential for Hezbollah to provoke a new civil war in Lebanon.

Israel, according to the source, continues to target Hezbollah operations across Lebanon with US support, sharing intelligence and providing coordinates for strikes. The Israeli official described an ongoing contest between the Lebanese Army and Hezbollah to control weapon stockpiles. “When the Army fails to confiscate Hezbollah’s arms, we conduct airstrikes,” the source stated.

Hezbollah allegedly dictates the terms under which the Lebanese Army can seize its weaponry and refuses to relinquish strategic arms, even as Israel exposes their locations.

The Israeli official further emphasized that Israel will not withdraw from five key positions in Lebanon as long as Hezbollah persists in efforts to regain its military foothold.