As Kuwait dismantles Hezbollah-linked cell and foils terror plot

2026-03-17 - 19:23

The Ministry of Interior announced that security authorities have successfully uncovered and dismantled a terrorist cell affiliated with Hezbollah, following intensive surveillance and intelligence operations. The group was reportedly planning to destabilize the country and recruit individuals into the banned organization, reports Al-Rai daily. . In a statement aired on Al-Akhbar channel, the ministry said investigations revealed an organized sabotage plot involving 14 Kuwaiti citizens and two Lebanese nationals. The group allegedly aimed to undermine national sovereignty, spread chaos, and disrupt public order, posing a direct threat to national security and the safety of citizens, residents, and state assets. Authorities, after obtaining legal authorization from the Public Prosecution, seized a cache of items from the suspects. These included firearms and ammunition, a weapon reportedly intended for assassinations, encrypted Morse communication devices, drones, maps, narcotics, cash, training equipment, and materials linked to terrorist organizations such as flags and images. The ministry confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that all suspects will be referred to the Public Prosecution for legal action. It added that security agencies will continue pursuing anyone connected to such groups. Reaffirming its stance, the Ministry stressed that Kuwait’s security and sovereignty are a “red line,” warning that any cooperation, support, or financing of foreign terrorist organizations will be met with firm and decisive measures, with zero tolerance for those involved in acts threatening national stability. Meanwhile, the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants strongly condemned the plot, denouncing Hezbollah’s involvement and recalling a Lebanese government decision issued on March 2, 2026, banning the group’s military and security activities. Lebanon expressed full solidarity with Kuwait, praised the vigilance of its security forces, and affirmed readiness to cooperate fully in investigations to ensure accountability. Similarly, the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attempted sabotage, reiterating Bahrain’s full support for Kuwait. In a statement, it emphasized the deep fraternal ties between the two nations and affirmed that the security of Gulf Cooperation Council countries is indivisible. Bahrain also commended the efficiency of Kuwaiti security and intelligence services in uncovering the cell, arresting its members, and thwarting its plans, expressing wishes for Kuwait’s continued security and stability.