Israeli Forces Intensify Search for Missing Pilot in Lebanon
Israel launches a raid in Lebanon, digging up graves in an effort to locate a pilot who disappeared over 40 years ago. The operation has reignited tensions in the region.
In a move that has heightened tensions in the region, the Israeli military has launched a raid in southern Lebanon, digging up graves in a search for a pilot who went missing over 40 years ago. The operation, which took place near the town of Aita al-Shaab, is the latest in a long-running effort by Israel to locate the remains of Lt. Col. Ron Arad, an air force navigator who was captured by Lebanese militants after his plane was shot down in 1986.
Decades-Old Disappearance
Lt. Col. Ron Arad was part of a two-man crew that was conducting a bombing raid over Lebanon when their plane was shot down on October 16, 1986. While the pilot, Yishai Aviram, was able to eject and was subsequently rescued, Arad was captured by the Shia Muslim group Amal and has not been seen or heard from since.
The disappearance of Arad has haunted Israel for decades, with successive governments attempting to uncover his fate and bring closure to his family. Several attempts have been made over the years to negotiate his release, but all have ultimately failed.
Source: Al Jazeera
