Israel claimed that Iran is constructing an airport in southern Lebanon, suggesting it may be utilized for launching attacks on Israeli territories.
The statement was made by Defense Minister Yoav Gallant during a major security summit at Reichman University close to Tel Aviv.
He said that the airstrip, which passes through the mountainous regions, is situated just 20 kilometers away from Israel’s northern frontier.
Gallant showcased satellite images which he asserts display the aforementioned location, clearly showing both the Iranian and Hezbollah flags. The minister accused Iran of intending to use this airstrip to target Israeli civilians.
The Iranian UN delegation did not provide any immediate feedback. Hezbollah’s representative also chose not to comment on these allegations.
Gallant did not provide the date when the images were captured. He mentioned that the site was near Jezzin in Lebanon, adjacent to Metulla in Israel.
In 2006, Israel and Hezbollah, a Shiite group dominating southern Lebanon, went to war.
Since that time, the border has been tense but primarily peaceful as both parties have been cautious about triggering another significant clash. However, the strain has been escalating.
Hezbollah, backed by its ally Iran, is devoted to the downfall of Israel, and its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, frequently issues threats against Israel.
Earlier this year, a man believed by Israeli officials to be connected to Hezbollah crossed into Israel from Lebanon and set off a bomb, seriously injuring an Israeli individual.
This spring, Hezbollah permitted Palestinian militant groups to function in its territories and launch rockets into Israel.
Israel expressed concerns about further hostile actions by Hezbollah, including instances where the group allegedly set up tents on Israel’s side of the Blue Line — a boundary established by the United Nations (UN) to verify Israel’s departure from southern Lebanon in 2000 following its occupation.
