Iranian Military Figures in Lebanon Are Still Helping Bolster Hezbollah

Iranian military officials stationed in Lebanon are continuing efforts to strengthen Hezbollah while staying out of sight of Lebanon's authorities, according to a Saturday evening report. Alongside Iran's ambassador in Beirut, who has refused to leave, these officials are described as the main link between Tehran and Hezbollah.

The report says the Iranian officers deployed across Lebanon are involved in Hezbollah's command structure and decision making during the confrontation with Israel. They also relay Hezbollah's situation and needs back to Tehran, pushing for deeper Iranian involvement in Lebanon.

Their activity is said to have included a role in Iran's decision to attack Israel directly after the Israeli strike in Beirut's Dahieh neighborhood. At present, they are working to send Hezbollah more money, equipment, weapons and training from Tehran.

The goal, according to the report, is to reinforce Hezbollah in Lebanon as a counterweight to efforts by the Lebanese government to curb the group's freedom of action. The background references broader tensions, including Israeli accusations that the Lebanese army commander is cooperating with Hezbollah, and a political directive to the IDF to avoid actions that could damage the existing arrangement.