Syrian Forces Arrest Hezbollah Cell Attempting to Deploy Missile Launchers Near Israel

Syrian internal security forces announced Tuesday the arrest of a Hezbollah-affiliated cell that was attempting to deploy missile launchers in the country's southwest, near the border with Israel. The operation, conducted in the Yarmouk Basin area of Daraa, was a joint effort by internal security forces and the General Intelligence Directorate targeting hostile activities.

The arrested cell reportedly consisted of three Hezbollah operatives, whose identities were not fully disclosed. According to Syrian reports, the group was tracked as they tried to set up missile launchers intended to disrupt security and public order. The launchers were dismantled, and the detainees are undergoing investigation before being handed over to judicial authorities.

This incident occurs within the context of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime acting against Hezbollah's activities. Syrian officials have reported intercepting Hezbollah operatives and weapons in recent years. Hezbollah, however, consistently denies any operational presence or activity within Syria, stating its interest in maintaining the country's stability and security.

This is not the first such incident reported by Syria. In July, Syrian state media reported the foiling of an attempt to smuggle advanced weapons and missiles through the border with Iraq, allegedly destined for Hezbollah via Syria. Two weeks prior to that, Syria announced the arrest of a Hezbollah terror cell in western Damascus province that was planning attacks within Syria. That cell was found with rocket launchers, Grad rockets, anti-tank missiles, and personal weapons.

In February, following reports of rocket attacks on Damascus, Syrian authorities announced the capture of a terror cell involved in such activities. Detainees allegedly confessed to receiving rockets and drones from Hezbollah and planning further drone attacks. In both of these prior cases, Hezbollah denied any connection to the events.