Syria says it foils arms smuggling attempt destined for Hezbollah
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Syrian authorities said on Thursday they had foiled an attempt to smuggle a large shipment of advanced weapons across the Syrian-Iraqi border, alleging the cargo was destined for Lebanon’s Hezbollah.
In a statement, Syria’s Ministry of Interior said security forces intercepted the shipment before it entered Syrian territory after identifying a suspicious vehicle parked near the border.
A search of the vehicle uncovered a cache of weapons, including long-range missiles, guided anti-tank missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), according to the ministry.
Preliminary investigations found that the shipment was intended to transit Syrian territory en route to Lebanon for Hezbollah, the ministry said, adding that investigations are ongoing to identify all those involved and the networks linked to the operation.
Separately, the General Authority for Border Crossings and Customs said the weapons were seized at the al-Tanf border crossing.
The authority said the shipment had been carefully concealed inside an oil tanker traveling toward the coastal city of Baniyas.
“After completing the necessary legal procedures and documenting the seizure, the confiscated shipment was handed over to the competent authorities to continue the investigation and pursue legal action against those involved,” the authority said.
The announcement comes as Syrian authorities have stepped up efforts to tighten security along the country’s borders and curb arms and drug smuggling networks following the political transition in Damascus.
“After completing the necessary legal procedures and documenting the seizure, the confiscated shipment was handed over to the competent authorities to continue the investigation and pursue legal action against those involved,” the authority said.
The announcement comes as Syrian authorities have stepped up efforts to tighten security along the country’s borders and curb arms and drug smuggling networks following the political transition in Damascus.
The Syrian-Iraqi border has long been used by armed groups and smuggling networks to move weapons, fighters and contraband. In recent months, the transitional government has intensified security operations along key border crossings, saying the measures are aimed at strengthening state control and preventing the movement of illicit weapons and militant groups.
Hezbollah has not commented on the Syrian allegations.