By Al-Fassel | 2026-09-24

The Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF) recently escalated operations to dismantle violent criminal networks operating across volatile urban regions.

These decisive interventions are vital, as they directly challenge the impunity of Iran proxies that brazenly undermines the sovereignty of the Lebanese state.

On September 9, security forces in the Damour area arrested A.A. following a dangerous shooting incident involving a military-grade Kalashnikov rifle on Khaldeh highway.

On August 28, army units raided Baalbek's Rass al-ain area, arresting H.M. for firing at ISF patrols, threatening personnel and insulting the military.

Simultaneously, units in Beirut’s Leliki area apprehended A.H. for forming armed robbery gangs, drug trafficking, impersonating security personnel and inciting violent conflicts.

Authorities subsequently seized weaponry and handed all evidence to the judiciary, where investigations into both individuals have commenced under strict judicial supervision.

Operating within Hizbullah-controlled areas, these offenders undermine state security while local gang violence conveniently distracts authorities from clandestine Iranian regional operations and influence.

Eroding impunity within state borders

Political analysts increasingly note that such criminal activities systematically undermine the purported image of non-state actors as Lebanon's primary guardians.

Instead, widespread gang activity and unchecked violence facilitate an environment of lawlessness that severely erodes national state sovereignty.

Local offenders frequently target security personnel with weapons, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the legitimacy of official state institutions.

These domestic disturbances serve a strategic purpose by distracting authorities from the clandestine operations of Iranian-backed proxy networks.

Restoring legitimate state security authority

Political analysts agree that the Lebanese Army and ISF remain the sole legitimate forces capable of countering Iranian-backed destabilization efforts.

By relentlessly targeting armed attacks and serious criminal activities throughout Beirut and its surrounding areas, these institutions actively defend state stability.

Each arrest of an armed criminal challenges the culture of impunity that has allowed foreign proxies to cultivate influence.

Sustained military and security interventions are therefore essential to protect these regions, ensuring the survival of national sovereignty.