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As Israel advances into southern Lebanon, it discovers large quantities of Russian weapons, confirming long-held suspicions that Hezbollah is enhancing its military capabilities with sophisticated weapons from Russia, reports Wall Street Journal.
Modern and sophisticated weapons
Among the weapons found were Kornet anti-tank missiles, manufactured as recently as 2020, and sent from Russian stockpiles in Syria. These weapons, which also include systems such as Metis, Konkurs, Fagots and Saggers, were discovered in underground and open-air bunkers less than a kilometer from the border.
An Israeli officer responsible for analyzing the seized weapons said that 60% to 70% of the weapons captured at the start of the incursion were of Russian origin. Markings on some of them show they were sent from Russia to the Syrian Defense Ministry. Other models, although older, also strengthen Hezbollah’s ability to wage an effective campaign against Israel.
Russian support via Syria
According to Syrian officials and an Arab official, Russia facilitated the transfer of weapons from its stockpiles in Syria to Hezbollah, in addition to equipment supplied by Iran. Although Hezbollah already possessed Russian weapons, these were previously less advanced, often dating from Soviet times.
The increased presence of modern equipment, such as the Kornet, has enabled Hezbollah to better resist Israeli strikes. These missiles, capable of hitting targets 7-8 kilometers away, have been used several times since the start of the clashes, causing significant losses among Israeli soldiers.
Growing concern in Israel
The discovery of these weapons has intensified Israeli concerns over Russia’s growing involvement with Hezbollah. Arkady Mil-Man, former Israeli ambassador to Russia, said: “We must clearly convey to the Russians that any assistance to Hezbollah and Iran that could harm Israel will not be tolerated. »
This military cooperation comes in a context of Russia’s changing position in the Middle East. Since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, Moscow has strengthened its relations with actors hostile to Israel, including Iran and the Houthis in Yemen. Analysts believe these alliances aim to challenge the United States and its allies in the region.
Israel reviews its policy towards Russia
Despite historically cautious relations with Moscow, Israel faces a strategic dilemma. Due to the Russian military presence in Syria, Israel has sought to maintain cordial relations to avoid direct clashes. However, analysts are calling for a change of approach, stressing that Russian actions on the ground directly cause Israeli losses.
Carmit Valensi, researcher at Institute for National Security Studieswarned: “It is no longer just indirect support for the axis of resistance. We encounter these weapons on the battlefield, and they cause casualties. »
Israeli objectives in South Lebanon
Israel launched its ground incursion in September 2024 to push Hezbollah away from the border and end rocket fire. Among its priorities are the neutralization of anti-tank missiles, such as the Kornet, which pose a major threat to Israeli troops and communities.
Analysts point out that Russian weapons, much more reliable than their Iranian copies, allow Hezbollah to wage a more effective campaign than groups like Hamas.
A complex geopolitical situation
As Israel continues its operations, the question of Russia’s role in military support for Hezbollah remains crucial. While diplomatic efforts are being made to dissuade Moscow from providing weapons, the reality on the ground shows that this equipment continues to flow in, posing major challenges for Israel and its allies.
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