Hezbollah received a significant influx of weapons valued at $129 million in 2024, supplied by Iran, according to a report by the Israeli Center for Research of Terror Financing (CENTEF). The report, titled 'Hezbollah Financial Statements, ' highlights Iran's substantial contribution of military assets to the group.
The CENTEF report reveals that Hezbollah's direct expenditure on arms was a mere $28 million. This spending was primarily on small arms, ammunition, drone components, and dual-use equipment, acquired through its international procurement networks. In stark contrast, Iran's in-kind contributions included a wide array of weaponry such as rockets, missiles, drones, anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), air-defense systems, and naval equipment.
Among the arsenal, Hezbollah acquired 4,000 short-range Katyusha rockets, 400 Falaq-1 and 2 rockets, and 120 Burkan rockets. These rockets, with costs ranging from $300 to $400 per unit, form a crucial part of Hezbollah's offensive capabilities. Additionally, the group obtained more advanced weaponry, including Iran's Fajr series and heavy rockets of Syrian origin. The Fajr-3 and Fajr-5 rockets, known for their destructive power, are estimated to cost between $2,000 and $10,000 each, with Hezbollah acquiring 600 units in 2024.
Anti-tank guided missiles are another significant component of Hezbollah's military strength. The CENTEF analysis notes that the Russian-made Kornet and Iran's Dehlavieh, a reverse-engineered variant, are predominant in Hezbollah's ATGM inventory. The Kornet costs approximately $26,000 per round, while the Dehlavieh is priced between $12,000 and $15,000.
Over the past year, Hezbollah has engaged in numerous attacks against Israel, leading to a depletion of its arsenal. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly decimated a significant portion of Hezbollah's rocket and missile stockpile. Lt. Col. (Res.) Sarit Zehavi, president of the Alma Research and Education Center, stated that Hezbollah currently possesses between 10,000 to 15,000 rockets, a significant reduction from previous levels. Most of the group's sophisticated and long-range missiles have been either eliminated or neutralized by Israeli forces.
The ongoing conflict has also impacted Hezbollah's leadership, with Israeli forces targeting and eliminating key figures within the organization. The IDF recently announced the elimination of a Hezbollah commander responsible for the murder of five American soldiers, underscoring the ongoing tensions and military engagements in the region.
