Berlin Resident Denies Alleged Ties to Hezbollah Militia in Terrorism Trial

A man from Berlin is currently on trial for alleged involvement with the Lebanese Hezbollah militia, accused of participating in weapons training and combat activities. The defendant, identified as a member of a prominent Berlin-based family, faces charges of joining a foreign terrorist organization and receiving military training abroad.

According to prosecutors, the 30-year-old suspect allegedly traveled to Lebanon between December 2023 and April 2025. Authorities claim he underwent weapons training and absorbed the militant group's ideological teachings. It is further alleged that he later became active in combat units operating near the Syrian and Israeli borders and, upon returning to Germany, publicly supported Hezbollah through online channels.

The General Prosecutor's Office in Berlin maintains that after returning from Lebanon, the accused promoted Hezbollah's objectives via social media platforms and encouraged other members of the group during video calls ahead of planned armed operations. Investigators assert that the man's activities included sharing pro-Hezbollah messages and urging his former unit to participate in further acts.

During the opening of the trial at Berlin's Higher Regional Court, the defendant, through his legal counsel, denied all allegations. His attorney stated that his client had not been integrated into any militant structures, had never taken orders from Hezbollah, nor participated in any combat operations. The defense presented an alternative narrative, stating the defendant's visit to Lebanon was for personal reasons, such as family gatherings, leisure activities, and tourism. The defense also argued that visits to shooting ranges were purely recreational and not linked to militant training.

The prosecution, however, contends that the defendant's background indicates a progression toward radicalization. They point to his family's extensive connections in Lebanon and assert that the defendant's intentions shifted after the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, allegedly motivating him to support Hezbollah's cause actively.

The accused reportedly has a history of prior convictions for robbery, fraud, and other offenses, with several prison sentences already served. He was arrested during a police operation in Berlin-Neukölln and has remained in pre-trial detention since his apprehension.

The case is expected to continue with further hearings, including the examination of digital evidence such as chat records and photographs. The court has scheduled multiple sessions to question witnesses and review materials related to the alleged activities. The outcome of the trial may influence ongoing efforts by German authorities to address suspected links between local residents and foreign militant organizations.