In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Brazilian police have foiled an alleged plot to attack Jewish targets in São Paulo. The suspects, believed to be linked to the Islamist group Hezbollah, were arrested on Wednesday, with the police disrupting what they termed the “preparation of terrorist attacks.”
The action involved a coordinated effort with Mossad, Israel’s national intelligence agency, showcasing the international collaboration in countering threats. Brazil, which has the second-largest Jewish community in Latin America, remains on high alert following the operation.
Federal Police conducted a series of 11 raids across São Paulo, Brasília, and Minas Gerais, based on intelligence suggesting potential terrorist activities. Those detained face serious charges, including involvement in a terrorist organisation and plotting terrorist acts, crimes that carry lengthy prison sentences in Brazil.
Hezbollah, recognized as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, the United States, Israel, Gulf Arab countries, and others, wields substantial influence in Lebanon. It is known for its military capability, political clout, and reported backing from Iran.
Israel reported a 10-hour confrontation at a Hamas stronghold amidst the current Gaza conflict, a situation that resonates with the recent activities in Brazil. Mossad stated the planned attacks were “directed and financed by the Iranian regime,” targeting “Israeli and Jewish targets in Brazil” and other unspecified countries.
Security analysts have long been aware of Hezbollah’s presence in South America, particularly within the tri-border area linking Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. The group’s alleged operations in this region reflect its global operational reach.
Mossad’s statement emphasized the continued efforts by Hezbollah and Iran to carry out international attacks against Israeli, Jewish, and Western interests, especially amid the Gaza conflict.
The shadow of Middle Eastern conflicts stretches far, as evidenced by the historical context in South America. Argentina has experienced the tragic consequences of such disputes, with the 1994 Amia Jewish cultural centre bombing in Buenos Aires, attributed to Hezbollah, marking the deadliest terror attack on its soil.
Despite persistent denials from Hezbollah and Iran, and the lack of convictions in the AMIA case, the specter of their involvement looms large.
The Syrian and Lebanese diasporas in Brazil and Argentina are substantial, though predominantly Christian. Yet, the Jewish population, notably sizeable in both nations, remains vigilant against threats.
In a move mirroring global concern over Hezbollah’s activities, Argentina designated it as a terrorist organization in 2019, a first in Latin America, followed by other nations in the region. Brazil, however, has yet to categorize Hezbollah in this manner, a detail that brings its counter-terrorism policies into the spotlight following these recent arrests.
