Lebanon: Security forces foil terror plot August 24

Event

On Friday, August 24, Lebanese security officials announced they had foiled a terror plot targeting military checkpoints and Christian churches in northern Lebanon. Reports indicate that a 23-year-old suspected terrorist was arrested by Lebanese forces at an undisclosed location in the north of the country. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Lebanon in the coming days.

Context

Lebanon's security context is closely tied to the situation in neighboring Syria, notably due to the involvement of the Lebanon-based Shi'a group Hezbollah in the Syrian civil war. Terrorist attacks have occurred periodically in Lebanon, usually targeting security forces or isolated villages in the Bekaa Valley, such as Arsal, Ras Baalbek, and Qaa. Several terror organizations are active in Lebanon, notably including Islamic State (IS), Tahrir al-Sham, Hamas, and the Abdullah Azzam Brigades.

Advice

Individuals in Lebanon are advised to monitor developments to the situation, report all suspicious objects or behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.