In a dramatic turn of events, an Israeli naval operation reportedly took place in the northern Lebanese coastal town of Batroun, early on 3 October 2024. The incident has raised tensions, with various reports emerging about the motives and implications of this operation.
Details of the Operation
According to security sources, Israeli troops landed in Batroun as part of a “special operation”. Reports indicate that a person, identified as Imad Amhaz, was captured during this operation:
- Pro-Hezbollah journalist Hassan Illaik shared CCTV footage showing soldiers in the town, with two of them visibly handling a person.
- Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency confirmed that security forces are investigating the incident.
- An unnamed Israeli military official suggested that Amhaz is a senior operative within Hezbollah.
Lebanese Response
The incident has prompted a swift reaction from Lebanese authorities. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has called for a thorough investigation into the kidnapping:
- Mikati has urged Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib to file an urgent complaint with the UN Security Council.
- Consultations between Mikati, Lebanese military officials, and representatives from United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) are ongoing.
Ongoing Tensions
The Lebanese transport minister, Ali Hamiye, confirmed the authenticity of the video evidence but refrained from making further comments. The international community is watching closely as this incident unfolds, mindful of the broader regional implications. As debates on sovereignty and border security intensify, the situation in Lebanon and Israel remains precarious.