Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant accused Iran on Monday of establishing an airport in southern Lebanon to enable attacks on Israel, presenting aerial images of the alleged site. Gallant mentioned that the location, which is 20 kilometers from the Israeli border, could accommodate medium-sized aircraft, during televised remarks at an international security conference hosted by Reichman University.
In his statements broadcasted on television, Gallant displayed aerial photos of what he claimed to be an airport built by Iran aimed at achieving "terrorist objectives" against Israel. He did not provide further details but added that the site could accommodate medium-sized aircraft. The location he referenced is near the village of Barkha Jabour and the Lebanese city of Jezzine, approximately 20 kilometers north of the Israeli border town of Metula.
An unnamed source familiar with the site indicated that it could accommodate large, potentially armed drones similar to those produced by Iran. The source added that drones launching from this site could be used in both internal and external operational activities but noted that the nature of the runway and its orientation suggest it would likely be used internally.
The source also mentioned that Hezbollah is making significant investments in drone technology. Hezbollah and Iranian officials have not yet responded to Gallant's statements. Israel is concerned about Iran's nuclear program, Tehran's missile capabilities, and its support for armed groups in the region. Hezbollah fought a war with Israel in 2006, and tensions have been escalating again along the border between the two countries recently.
