Amid growing regional pressure to curb Hezbollah’s military capabilities, Syria has intensified efforts to halt the smuggling of weapons and other illicit goods into Lebanon, a key step aimed at preventing the militant group from rebuilding its arsenal. 

In recent weeks, Syrian security forces have ramped up raids against smuggling networks, frequently announcing the arrests of individuals accused of trafficking drugs, money, and goods into Lebanon. These actions highlight Syria’s increasingly active role in addressing concerns shared by international stakeholders about Hezbollah’s continued military empowerment.

According to informed sources cited by Al-Modon, Syrian troops carried out on Sunday two significant operations targeting arms smuggling routes used to transport weapons concealed in trucks loaded with vegetables crossing into Lebanon. These vehicles reportedly contained Kornet missiles, a type of advanced anti-tank weapon commonly used by Hezbollah forces.

Israel, which views Hezbollah’s arsenal as a direct threat, has previously responded to weapons transfers by launching airstrikes on suspected shipments either crossing the Lebanese-Syrian border or located inside Syrian territory. These strikes aim to disrupt Hezbollah’s ability to reinforce its military presence in Lebanon.

The crackdown by Syrian forces signals a shift in Damascus’s approach, aligning with broader international efforts, especially those led by the United States, to limit Hezbollah’s military growth.