Syria intercepts massive Hezbollah arms shipment hidden inside oil tanker from Iraq

Syrian security forces have intercepted a significant arms shipment believed to be destined for Hezbollah, hidden within an oil tanker truck attempting to cross from Iraq. The Syrian Interior Ministry announced the operation on July 16, stating that specialized units detected a suspicious vehicle near the border.

A subsequent search uncovered a substantial cache of weapons, including long-range missiles, guided anti-tank missiles, and drones. State media outlet SANA reported that the shipment was intended to transit through Syria into Lebanon for the benefit of Hezbollah. Investigations are underway to identify all individuals involved and associated networks.

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A search uncovered a cache of weapons that included long-range missiles, guided anti-tank missiles and drones.

The truck was stopped at the Tanf Border Crossing, located on the Syria-Iraq border. The Syrian North Press Agency noted that the vehicle was intercepted before it could enter Syrian territory. Photos released by Syrian authorities showed some of the seized weapons, including numerous drones and anti-tank missiles.

Analysts at the Alma Research and Education Center identified items in the photos consistent with Hezbollah's current military build-up priorities, particularly for its aerial unit. The shipment included components suggesting advanced capabilities, such as RPG warheads adapted for drones and potentially Paveh-family cruise missiles. The discovery underscores Hezbollah's continued efforts to strengthen its forces and logistical networks.

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The shipment was intended to cross through Syrian territory towards Lebanon for the benefit of the terrorist Hezbollah militia, while investigations are continuing to uncover all the circumstances of the case, identify all those involved, and the networks associated with it.