Lebanese Security Sources Warn Hezbollah Re-arming with Drones and Explosives

Lebanese security officials familiar with Hezbollah's activities have stated that the organization has spent the last three months preparing for a potential resumption of hostilities with Israel, following significant financial infusions from Iran. Despite substantial losses incurred during the recent conflict with Israel, Hezbollah remains committed to fighting and has used the ceasefire since June to rearm, focusing on acquiring explosives and manufacturing drones for potential attacks on Israeli positions. Sources speaking to Reuters indicated that Hezbollah received tens of millions of dollars from Iran to bolster its military capabilities, in addition to approximately $200 million previously provided by Tehran to aid displaced families in its strongholds. The group is reportedly working to rebuild command and control structures damaged in key battles with Israel. Hezbollah's information office told Reuters that "Israeli occupation of Lebanese land makes any resistance to it a legitimate right," and denied claims that its command and control systems had collapsed. The IDF declined to comment, as did Iran's UN mission. A US State Department spokesperson affirmed Washington's commitment to cutting off Hezbollah's funding through sanctions, with the US Treasury noting Iran's dwindling financial resources and transfer methods. Hezbollah is reportedly on alert for potential escalation between the US and Iran, which could reignite the Lebanese front. However, sources acknowledge that the organization has not yet fully reconstituted its weapon stockpiles or combat forces. Hezbollah admitted this month that explosives seized by Lebanese authorities belonged to it and were intended for use against Israel, specifically for its explosive-laden drones. The group also faces the challenge of restoring its command and control capabilities after losses in critical areas. Hezbollah's tactical shift to smaller units and limited anti-tank missile use reportedly left some units isolated and struggling against Israel's remote-controlled systems, including armed drones. The IDF stated it uses remote-controlled systems to monitor southern Lebanon and minimize troop exposure. While Hezbollah has not explicitly stated its involvement in a renewed conflict, its information office indicated caution to avoid giving Israeli leaders justification for escalation, fearing further displacement of its support base.