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Lebanon uncovers new tunnel amid tensions with Hezbollah: What to know

A tunnel was discovered near Beirut as tensions between Lebanese authorities and Hezbollah have been running high over the seizure of weapons shipments destined for the Iran-backed group.

tunnel
Digging equipment is pictured next to a tunnel discovered by Lebanese authorities near Beirut on Oct. 18, 2026. — Lebanese Armed Forces

BEIRUT — Lebanon’s military said on Monday it uncovered a tunnel northeast of the capital Beirut and arrested one suspect in the case. The news comes amid heightened tensions with the armed group Hezbollah over the seizure of weapons shipments this month.

What happened: In a statement, the Lebanese military said it deployed specialized units to the Metn area, where locals had reported a tunnel.

According to the statement, the tunnel is 13 meters long, five meters high and eight meters wide. No weapons or military equipment were found inside. Military forces reportedly seized digging tools and arrested a person who is suspected of being involved in its excavation.

An investigation has been opened to identify the intended purpose of the tunnel, the statement read.

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