A man was arrested at Beirut airport for carrying $2.5 million in cash intended for Hezbollah, in a significant bust that highlights concerns over the group’s funding from Turkey and Iran. Experts noted this seizure as unprecedented, linking it to Hezbollah’s efforts to regain military strength following setbacks from Israeli military actions.
A man was detained at Beirut’s airport while allegedly carrying $2.5 million in cash intended for Hezbollah, marking an unprecedented seizure according to experts. The Finance Ministry of Lebanon confirmed that the individual and the seized funds would be transferred to the General Directorate of General Security for investigation. Sources indicate the detainee traveled from Turkey, linking shipments to Hezbollah, as per Israeli claims that Turkey serves as a conduit for Iranian financial support to the group.
David Daoud, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, remarked on the significance of the seizure, stating, “The $2.5 million dollar seizure is unprecedented.” He emphasized the potential for additional cash transfers remaining undetected. The funds were directed to Hezbollah, which has experienced a decline in capabilities due to military actions by Israel.
Despite recent setbacks, Hezbollah is reportedly striving to strengthen its military capabilities with Iranian assistance, as highlighted by Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon’s remarks regarding the organization’s attempts to regain power since the war. The group did not provide an immediate statement following the incident. This seizure occurs amidst ongoing tensions, with the Israel Defense Forces engaging in skirmishes with Hezbollah, particularly in the context of Israel’s military operations against Hamas.
This incident reflects growing concerns over Hezbollah’s funding and military strengthening, particularly its connections with Turkey and Iran amid conflicts in the region. The $2.5 million cash seizure at Beirut airport underlines the ongoing challenges related to financing terrorist organizations. As tensions persist, the implications for regional security continue to evolve.
Original Source: www.wwbl.com
