Argentina Foils Terrorist Plot Detaining Three with Links to Syria and Lebanon
Argentina Thwarts Potential Terrorist Attack by Detaining Three Suspects
In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through Argentina, security forces have detained three individuals with Syrian and Lebanese citizenship, suspecting their involvement in a terrorist plot within the South American nation. The nation’s Security Minister and Federal Police announced this apprehension on a Wednesday, drawing attention to a potential threat to Argentina’s security.
While the authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the detained suspects, they are actively investigating the purpose of their visit to Argentina. A significant discovery emerged concerning a 35-kilogram package en route from Yemen, intended for one of the individuals in custody.
“Indications arose of the possible entry into the country of three citizens of Syrian and Lebanese origin who, after arriving on different flights, were to meet in the city of Buenos Aires to plan an eventual terrorist act,” reported Argentina’s Federal Police in a statement. However, the police did not specify when the arrests took place.
Security Minister Patricia Bullrich addressed the media, shedding some light on the situation. She revealed that the suspects had previously entered Argentina using passports from other countries. However, she emphasized that their identities would only be disclosed once their veracity could be confirmed.
As the investigation unfolds, Minister Bullrich remarked, “Now there is an investigation. We will see if it was indeed a cell that came to Argentina or if it has another implication.” Her appointment to the position was recent, taking office on December 10th.
Parallels with Recent Brazil Operation
This alarming development occurred less than two months after Brazil’s federal police apprehended at least three individuals while dismantling a suspected cell linked to the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. The operation was initiated following a tip-off from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation.
One of the detainees in Brazil had reportedly taken photographs and videos of two synagogues and a Jewish cemetery in Brasilia, heightening concerns about potential threats.
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The specter of terror has haunted Argentina in the past, with the Israeli embassy and the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association, a Jewish community center, suffering devastating attacks in 1992 and 1994, respectively. These attacks, which resulted in nearly 100 casualties, underscore the gravity of any potential security threat in the region. Argentina remains vigilant in safeguarding its citizens against terrorism.
