Lebanon investigates explosives shipment linked to Hezbollah

Lebanon’s security forces seized an explosives shipment linked to Hezbollah, prompting a call between President Joseph Aoun and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio over the handling of the cargo and accountability for those involved. Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah acknowledged the group’s connection to the shipment and said it was intended for use against Israel. The Lebanese Presidential Palace said Aoun told Rubio that security forces were carrying out their duties to confiscate illicit arms. The Palace also said Aoun asked Rubio to press Israel to halt attacks in southern Lebanon. A U.S. official said Rubio urged Aoun not to return the explosives to Hezbollah and to hold those who ordered, financed or directed the shipment accountable. Fadlallah said Hezbollah had contacted security agencies to clarify ownership of the vehicle and its cargo. He demanded the explosives be returned and personnel detained in connection with the seizure be released. His remarks established the group’s claim to the shipment; the supplied accounts do not independently verify its stated intended use. The reported quantity differs in accounts of the seizure. Some reports, citing judicial...