Lebanon charges 13 Hezbollah members over explosive shipment amid push to curb Iran's influence
The defendants were charged with endangering state security, defying government decisions, membership in a banned organization, and possessing firearms and explosives.
Lebanon's Military Court has charged 13 Hezbollah members over the seizure of a half-ton explosive shipment earlier this month. The 13 individuals, including two men arrested in the vehicle, are accused of endangering state security, defying government decisions, being part of a banned organization, and possessing illegal firearms and explosives.
Only the two named defendants remain in Lebanese custody. The charges carry potential sentences of up to 10 years in prison, though Hezbollah operatives often receive lenient treatment in past cases.
The explosives were found at a checkpoint in Dahr al-Baidar, Bekaa Valley, sparking fears they were intended for a political assassination. Although Hezbollah claimed the explosives were for Israel, some Lebanese commentators pointed out that they resembled those used in the 2005 truck bombing that killed former Prime Minister Rafic Hariri. Hezbollah demanded the release of its members and the return of the seized explosives, which the government has refused.
The incident unfolds as Lebanon seeks to curb Iran's influence, with Foreign Minister Joe Rajji condemning Iran's interference. He stated that Lebanon will no longer allow its territory to be used to threaten regional security and emphasized that foreign policy decisions must be made in Beirut. Rajji further criticized Hezbollah, alleging that the charged individuals were defending the nation and protecting Lebanese people, despite public opinion favoring disarming Hezbollah and limiting government authority to military matters.
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