Russian Wagner Group plans to supply air defense weapons to Hezbollah
The United States claims to hold intelligence information that the Russian mercenary group, Wagner, intends to furnish Hezbollah with an SA-22 air defense system, as reported by "The Wall Street Journal".
2:09 PM EDT, November 3, 2023
According to anonymous US officials, it has been stated that the Wagner Group is planning to supply an SA-22 system, which incorporates anti-aircraft missiles and aids in aircraft interception.
As per an individual familiar with American intelligence reports, the Russian SA-22 system has already been shipped to Syria, and if the shipment is accomplished successfully, it would then be dispatched to Hezbollah, contingent upon President Assad's consent.
While these reports haven't been confirmed formally by Washington, officials have stated they are actively monitoring any discussions involving Wagner and Hezbollah, noting that a potential delivery could pose substantial concerns.
"The Wall Street Journal's" disconcerting reports were noted by Adrienne Watson, a spokeswoman for the White House National Security Council. She stated that Russia's refusal to condemn Hamas for its severe terrorist attack on Israel is deeply troubling, especially as they recently hosted Hamas representatives in Moscow. Watson added that these developments coincide with Russia's continued offenses in Ukraine.
The Russian Embassy did not respond to "The Wall Street Journal's" request for comment.
This intelligence information arises amidst wider concerns that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia, could intensify the conflict and initiate a northern front against Israel. In an endeavor to discourage Hezbollah and Iran, the United States has deployed an aircraft carrier in the eastern Mediterranean.
