Civilian Naval Officer Kidnapped in Northern Lebanon Amid Concerns Over Maritime Security
Lebanese authorities have identified Imad Amhaz, a civilian naval officer, as the individual kidnapped near Batroun in northern Lebanon. According to Lebanon’s Minister of Public Works in the caretaker government, Ali Hamieh, the abduction occurred just 100 meters from Amhaz’s residence, sparking concerns over maritime security in the area. Hamieh informed Al Mayadeen on Saturday that discussions are underway with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which is responsible for monitoring the Lebanese coastline.
Hamieh raised questions about UNIFIL’s effectiveness, stating, "If it is proven that the kidnapping was carried out via a sea landing, then where is the enforcement of Resolution 1701?" He emphasized that UNIFIL's mission includes periodic surveillance of the Lebanese coast from Naqoura to al-Arida to ensure security.
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A security source further clarified to Al Mayadeen that the kidnapped individual is the captain of a civilian vessel, not a member of the Lebanese armed forces. The source reported that the abduction was carried out by “the occupation army” in a landing operation in Batroun, underscoring the civilian status of the captured officer.
In response to media coverage, Hezbollah’s Media Relations issued a statement rejecting claims aired by Al Hadath channel that were attributed to "a source in Hezbollah." The party asserted it does not operate through unofficial “sources” and criticized the channel for what it described as participation in “Zionist propaganda” against Lebanon and its resistance forces.
This incident has raised alarm among Lebanese officials and residents, who are questioning the security measures along Lebanon’s coastline and the role of UNIFIL in ensuring maritime safety under Resolution 1701.
Source: Almayadeen