The Occupation Thwarts an Operation to Transfer Weapons from Iran to Armed Groups in the West Bank

Translation by SadaNews - The Israeli army, in cooperation with the Shin Bet, thwarted an unusual weapons transfer operation from Iran, which was intended to reach armed groups in the West Bank. Among the materials seized were anti-tank missiles, explosive-laden drones, and machine guns according to SadaNews translation.

The Shin Bet and the Israeli army announced in a joint statement the discovery of a large shipment of weapons sent from Iran via a regional smuggling network, intended for use by militants in the West Bank, following intensive intelligence activities.

According to Israeli security sources, these weapons have the capability to destabilize the balance and change the ground situation if they reach their destination.

According to SadaNews translation, the shipment included anti-tank missiles, RPG launchers, Kalimor bombs, drones capable of dropping payloads, hand grenades, machine guns, and pistols.

Reports also indicated that some drones were equipped for use as explosives to conduct remote attacks.

Among the seized materials were: 29 Kalimor explosive devices, 4 drones (two of which were loaded with explosives), 15 anti-tank missiles, one RPG launcher, three warheads, 20 hand grenades, 53 pistols, 7 assault rifles, 9 machine guns, and 750 pistol bullets.

According to sources in the Shin Bet, a resident of Ramallah involved in arms trafficking was arrested in recent months, and during the investigation, it became apparent that he was connected to smuggling elements working for Iran.

A joint operation by the Shin Bet, special units of the Israeli army, and other security agencies also led to the location of the warehouse where the weapons were hidden, and the arrest of other individuals involved in the case.

Israeli security sources estimate that the weapons shipment was sent by the special operations wing of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, which was recently headed by Qassem Ghafari, in collaboration with the special operations unit of the Quds Force, currently led by Ayther Bakri.

According to estimates, the Iranian intention was to allow armed organizations in the West Bank to expand their firing range and use drones to conduct offensive operations against Israeli army forces and civilians.

The security agencies described the seizure operation as "one of the most significant thwarted operations this year," indicating that it demonstrates Iran's increasing involvement in arms smuggling to the West Bank.

According to them, "Iran is working to replicate the operational patterns of Hezbollah and Hamas in the West Bank as well, with the aim of igniting the crisis from within."