Israel says Hezbollah planning murder or abduction bid
Israel”s counter-terrorism bureau on Sunday warned that Hezbollah is planning to abduct or kill Israeli officials ahead of the anniversary of the assassination of the Lebanese militia”s senior leader.
"Hezbollah is apparently prepared for carrying out a severe attack against an Israeli target, including abroad," the bureau said in a statement, warning specifically of assassination or kidnapping attempts.
"Such an attack is a threat against any Israeli, especially senior officials," it said.
The bureau reiterated its travel warnings for Israelis, calling on tourists and businessmen to take special precaution in hotels, restaurants and recreational spots abroad.
The anti-terror bureau has issued a number or warnings that Hezbollah was seeking to target or abduct Israelis abroad following the assassination of Hezbollah commander Imad Mughniyeh in Damascus in February 2008.
Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Thursday vowed to avenge Mughniyeh”s killing, which he blamed on Israel, although the Jewish state has denied any involvement in the incident.
"The Israelis live in fear of our revenge," Nasrallah said in a rare news conference via video link. "The decision to respond to the killing is still on. We decide the time and place."
In 2000, Hezbollah snatched Israeli businessman Elhanan Tannenbaum after luring him to the United Arab Emirates. He was released in January 2004 as part of a prisoner exchange deal with the militia.