The operation underscores Israel's capability to conduct covert operations deep within Lebanese territory, raising concerns about regional security dynamics.
Lebanon's official denial of Amhaz's military affiliation reflects the complex political landscape and the sensitivity surrounding Hezbollah's activities.
The ongoing investigations in Lebanon may lead to heightened diplomatic tensions between Lebanon and Israel.
The incident could provoke retaliatory actions or escalations in military posturing from both sides, particularly in the maritime region.
Israeli Commando Operation in Lebanon: Details and Reactions
On November 3, 2024, Israeli media reported a highly secretive commando operation that resulted in the kidnapping of Imad Amhaz, a Lebanese citizen, from the Batroun area. According to George Harb, a media advisor to Lebanon's State Security Service, the Israeli unit managed to execute the operation without detection by radar, entering the apartment where Amhaz was located and completing the kidnapping in approximately three and a half minutes. Harb emphasized that the investigation into this incident is ongoing and described the circumstances surrounding the kidnapping as mysterious.
The Israeli Army Radio claimed that the operation had been planned for an extended period, and that the Israeli military did not initially intend to take responsibility for the abduction. They noted that had media outlets not reported on the event, it may have remained undisclosed. Following the incident, the Israeli military conducted preliminary investigations with Amhaz at the site, and security officials suggested that capturing a figure linked to Hezbollah's maritime operations holds significant intelligence value.
In contrast, Lebanese authorities have denied Israeli claims that Amhaz is a military official, asserting instead that he is a civilian sea captain. In response to the kidnapping, Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has instructed Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib to file a formal complaint with the United Nations Security Council. Mikati has been actively monitoring the situation and has been in contact with military officials regarding the ongoing investigations.
- The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly in the context of the maritime domain where both parties have vested interests.
