As Israeli aircraft struck Beirut’s southern suburbs last March, civilians hurried to leave the area. This turmoil provided an opportunity for Khaled al-Aydi to escape his imprisonment in a Hezbollah cell. He managed to reach the green hills overlooking Lebanon’s capital and took refuge within the Ukrainian Embassy in Baabda’s diplomatic quarter. His current whereabouts remain unknown, contributing to a complex spy case involving Hezbollah and Israeli intelligence efforts.
Al-Aydi, identified by Lebanese officials as a Palestinian refugee from Syria holding Ukrainian citizenship, had been accused of participating in an Israeli plot to execute bombings and assassinations. Three judicial officials, two senior security officials, and a senior Hezbollah political official, all speaking anonymously, provided details of al-Aydi’s escape and the Lebanese military court case against him. The situation might create political complications for the Lebanese government, especially if evidence shows governmental assistance in his escape.
The Ukrainian Embassy sought assistance from Lebanese authorities to enable al-Aydi’s departure following his escape. However, Lebanon’s General Security denied the request due to an outstanding judicial warrant. Despite Israeli intelligence agency Mossad and Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry declining comment, a Ukrainian official stated al-Aydi is not currently at the embassy.
Israel’s Intelligence Networks
Israel employs both human and technological surveillance to maintain an extensive intelligence network within Lebanon. This network facilitated high-profile operations against Hezbollah, including booby-trapped equipment sent to Hezbollah in September 2024. These devices, later detonated, resulted in at least 37 fatalities. Israeli airstrikes also killed Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah’s long-time leader, during the same period. Nicholas Blanford, an expert on Hezbollah, commented on Israel’s ability to target senior Hezbollah figures effectively.
After the 2024 Israel-Hezbollah war, heightened efforts were made by Hezbollah and Lebanese authorities to dismantle spy networks. Approximately 50 individuals have been convicted, while others are still under investigation. Wafiq Safa, a Hezbollah official, emphasized their success in identifying espionage efforts, although they acknowledge ongoing recruitment attempts by Israel.
Al-Aydi: An Unlikely Spy
Unique among alleged spies, al-Aydi did not fit the typical profile of an insider with Hezbollah connections. He, reportedly, gained Ukrainian citizenship through his mother. Unlike many refugees from Syria’s civil war, al-Aydi entered Lebanon from Ethiopia in August 2025, according to a Lebanese security official.
Hezbollah’s evolution over the decades made it more susceptible to Israeli infiltration. Blanford noted that recruitment standards lowered during the Syrian civil war, and Lebanon’s economic challenges facilitated Israel’s recruitment efforts. Investigations highlight payments between $2,500 and $20,000 for individuals providing intelligence on Hezbollah targets. Recruitment largely occurred through social media.
One notable case involved religious performer Mohammad Hadi Saleh, who was charged with supplying Israeli intelligence with critical information on Hezbollah sites. His trial is pending.
Political Tensions
Allegations and political strain persist as the Lebanese government and Hezbollah disagree on their approach to Israel. Hezbollah’s decision to enter the conflict unilaterally worried the government, while Hezbollah criticized government negotiations for a ceasefire. Al-Aydi’s escape could heighten already fragile relations. U.S. and Ukrainian influence might pressure Lebanon regarding his release. Conversely, failure to restrict his exit could anger Hezbollah supporters, intensifying internal discord.