Lebanon: Security forces foil terror plot October 9

Event

On Tuesday, October 9, Lebanese security officials announced they had foiled a terror plot targeting military forces in northern Lebanon. Reports indicate that Lebanese forces arrested a suspected terrorist with alleged ties to the Islamic State (IS) in Akkar. 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), Hay'at 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 and behavior to the police, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.