Berlin, Germany – A German court sentenced a 35-year-old Lebanese man to six years and four months in prison after convicting him of supplying Hezbollah with equipment used in the manufacture of drones. He was also charged with membership in a foreign terrorist organization and attempted murder.
Conviction for supporting a terrorist organization
The court, which held its sessions in the German city of Celle, explained that the defendant, identified only by his initials “Fadel Z.,” joined Hezbollah after July 2016. It also noted that he played a role in providing equipment that could be used for military purposes on behalf of the Iranian-backed group.
German authorities arrested the defendant in the summer of 2014. This followed an investigation that revealed his involvement in activities related to supporting the group’s military program, particularly in the area of drone development.
Supplying equipment for hundreds of drones
According to the case file, by 2022 the defendant had organized the export of goods and components with potential military applications worth approximately €500,000. The aim was to contribute to the development of Hezbollah’s drone program.
The court noted that the supplied equipment included parts and technical components intended for more than 300 explosive drones. The court considered this to be direct support for the group’s military capabilities.
Sentence reduced after partial confession
The prosecution had sought a nine-year prison sentence for the defendant, but the court decided to reduce the penalty after he confessed to some of the charges against him. This contributed to expediting the legal proceedings.
The United States, Britain, and the European Union classify Hezbollah’s military wing as a terrorist organization. Germany, meanwhile, announced in 2020 a complete ban on the group’s activities within its borders, designating it a terrorist organization that threatens security and stability.
