Lebanon has embarked on a comprehensive national strategy to combat drug trafficking, moving beyond isolated security raids to coordinated operations that unite the military, security agencies, and the judiciary. The government aims to dismantle production and distribution hubs, prevent Lebanese territory from being used as a transit point for transnational criminal networks, and restore state authority in areas historically linked to illicit activity.

A senior official told the Kuwaiti Al-Anbaa newspaper that “recent military and security operations reflect a proactive, offensive approach aimed at dismantling the infrastructure of drug networks, not merely intercepting shipments or arresting individuals.” The army’s operation in Boday in the Bekaa Valley, where specialized drug manufacturing equipment was seized and large quantities of narcotics confiscated during raids on wanted suspects’ homes, is part of a broader ongoing security plan targeting production and distribution networks in multiple regions, particularly Baalbek-Hermel.

“Targeting the industrial backbone of these networks is a pivotal step in drying up sources of production and preventing their reconstitution,” the official said.

Successive operations in Baalbek-Hermel and other areas reflect advanced intelligence capabilities that allow authorities to pinpoint production and storage sites with precision, the official added.

“The seizure of millions of Captagon pills and large quantities of raw narcotics in previous operations confirms that security agencies are no longer limited to pursuing street-level traffickers. They are systematically dismantling networks at all levels. This escalating approach aims to restore full state control over areas historically dominated by organized crime.”

The official emphasized that security efforts extend beyond Lebanese territory to include border crossings and air and sea entry points. In one case, the General Directorate of General Security dismantled a network using Beirut Airport as a hub for drug trafficking. Investigations under judicial supervision revealed coordinated external involvement and professional methods, highlighting the transnational nature of the threat.

“Their dismantling sends a clear message that Lebanese territory will no longer serve as a platform or transit route for trafficking drugs to friendly or neighboring states,” the official said.

Coordination between security agencies and the judiciary is central to the strategy’s success, the official noted.

“Raids and arrests are conducted under judicial warrants and with careful follow-up on investigations, ensuring that the legal process is fully observed and those involved are held accountable. This integrated approach reflects a comprehensive institutional strategy, rather than a temporary or ad hoc response.”

The official also highlighted that Lebanon has strengthened cooperation with security agencies in Arab and friendly countries, including operational coordination and intelligence-sharing. This collaboration has helped thwart trafficking attempts and dismantle networks linked to external actors, boosting international confidence in Lebanon’s ability to secure its borders and combat organized crime.

“It also contributes to rebuilding security relations with Arab neighbors affected by previous trafficking operations,” the official said.

Lebanon has reportedly made significant progress in targeting all levels of the drug system, from production to storage, transport, and export. Authorities treat combating drug networks as a national priority, linking it to national security, social stability, and regional relations. The official concluded that continuing the comprehensive plan is expected to eliminate drug hubs and sources, reinforcing the rule of law and ushering in a new era of security stability.