© Wikimedia Commons
Israeli PM Claims Discovery of Russian Weapons in Hezbollah Bases
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made significant claims regarding the discovery of advanced Russian weaponry in Hezbollah bases in southern Lebanon. Speaking to French newspaper Le Figaro, Netanyahu emphasized that Israeli forces, during their searches, uncovered “state-of-the-art” Russian weapons within the region, a violation of a 2006 United Nations Security Council resolution. This resolution restricts the possession of weapons south of Lebanon’s Litani River exclusively to the Lebanese army.
Netanyahu pointed out the existence of “hundreds of tunnels and caches” in this area, which Hezbollah has reportedly utilized for storing these advanced weapons. The discovery has further complicated the already tense situation in the region. Israel has been engaged in military operations against Hezbollah, aiming to secure the northern border and facilitate the safe return of around 60,000 residents evacuated from the area.
Hezbollah’s Weapon Cache in Violation of UN Resolution
The Washington Post, citing Israeli officials, reported that during recent operations, Israeli forces also discovered Russian and Chinese anti-tank weapons in Lebanon. These findings come amid escalating tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have been flaring since last month.
The Israeli military, when approached by AFP for a comment on Netanyahu’s statements, did not provide an immediate response. However, the prime minister clarified Israel’s intentions in the region, stating, “A new civil war in Lebanon would be a tragedy. It is certainly not our aim to provoke one. Israel does not intend to interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs.”
Israel’s Security Objective on the Lebanon Border
Netanyahu reiterated that the primary goal of Israel’s military actions is to create a secure environment for Israeli citizens living near the Lebanon border. “Our only aim is to allow our citizens living along the Lebanon frontier to go home and feel safe,” he stressed. The discovery of advanced weaponry has intensified concerns over regional stability, with both Israeli and Lebanese civilians caught in the crossfire.
This revelation of foreign weapons in Hezbollah’s possession underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, raising concerns over external influences and their impact on regional security. As Israel continues its military campaign, the international community is closely watching the developments, wary of further escalation.
