As attention remains focused on the aftermath of the ceasefire that ended Israel’s devastating war in Gaza and its potential implications for Lebanon, the terrorist cell uncovered by Lebanon’s General Security has drawn little notice despite the serious nature of the sabotage operations it was allegedly planning during Hezbollah’s events marking the first anniversary of the assassination of its two senior leaders.

Hezbollah’s large-scale displays of power and provocative messaging during the commemorations overshadowed the significance of the case. The group and its affiliated media outlets were quick to reveal details about the cell and frame the story within their familiar narrative of an “existential threat” and global targeting of the Shiite community.

It was the General Security Directorate that uncovered and dismantled the network, following extensive surveillance and investigations led by Major General Hassan Shukeir. After arresting the cell’s main suspect, a Lebanese-Brazilian national, Shukeir promptly briefed President Joseph Aoun in Baabda, presenting a detailed map of the planned targets, individuals involved, and the tools used.

Once Hezbollah learned of the mastermind’s arrest, it launched a separate, unofficial investigation. The group reportedly detained one of the cell’s key members, a German national of Palestinian descent, and refused three formal requests to hand him over to State authorities.

When General Security prepared to hold a press conference to present the findings of its investigation, Hezbollah preempted the move by leaking information through its media platforms, shaping the narrative to its advantage. The leaks served a dual purpose: polishing the group’s image while undermining state institutions and embarrassing General Security, which ultimately decided to cancel the briefing.

Hezbollah’s media outlets have since intensified their criticism of the General Security Directorate, portraying its director as a self-promoting figure. Sources close to the agency say the campaign reflects Hezbollah’s frustration with Major General Shukeir’s efforts to restore the institution’s independence and distance it from perceptions of being under the group’s influence.

Last week, Lebanese authorities said they have dismantled a spy network allegedly supported by Israel that was planning bombings in the country, including at events commemorating assassinated Hezbollah leaders. According to the agency, the network had been preparing “terrorist acts of bombings and assassinations inside Lebanon.”