Fox News Digital recently gained access to Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Tzrifin Base in Central Israel. This site houses a large number of confiscated weapons used by Hezbollah and Hamas. The arsenal includes rockets, grenades, drones, sniper rifles, automated weapons, anti-tank rocket launchers, and mortars.
These weapons originated from various manufacturers such as Iran, Russia, China, and local producers in Lebanon and Gaza. Among the confiscated items is a Nazi-era gun. The arsenal was employed in conflicts against Israeli civilians and IDF since the attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
The IDF reported that Hezbollah used some weapons against Lebanese civilians as well. Both Hezbollah and Hamas form part of Iran’s “axis of resistance.” These groups have been responsible for the deaths of over 300 American citizens, according to reports.
The conflict saw the Jewish state fighting on multiple fronts against Iran and its proxies. At Tzrifin, remains of Iranian rockets are visible, evidence of attacks on cities like Tel Aviv and Be’ersheva.
Among the unusual finds is a World War II-era German MG-34 machine gun with a Nazi swastika. Lt. Col. (res.) Idan Sharon-Kettler of the Captured Equipment Evacuation Unit noted that identification of such weapons is routine. The MG-34 and other Nazi weapons serve purposes like propaganda.
Hezbollah and Hamas utilize sophisticated dual-use technologies, converting civilian vehicles for military use. For instance, an Egyptian Halawa Motors motorcycle was among those captured after it was used for hostage-taking on October 7.
The IDF discovered “propaganda dummies” used by Palestinian Islamic Jihad during parades in Gaza. Also on display were all-terrain vehicles (ATV) equipped for holding and launching rockets, highlighting their use in rugged terrains like southern Lebanon.
Numerous mortars produced in Iran were found. Drones seized from Hezbollah serve purposes like resource diversion. Sharon-Kettler reported “dozens” of captured Iranian regime-produced canons, many found in south Lebanese villages built into civilian homes.
Weapons like Russian-produced AK-47 rifles and newer versions like the AK-103 and AK-104 were among those stored. Light sniper rifles, sourced from Iran and Russia, are common for both Hezbollah and Hamas. A Turkish hunting rifle and Austrian Steyr HS .50 sniper rifles were also captured, with Iranian replicas of the latter noted.
Sharon-Kettler explained Israel’s ongoing mission in Lebanon, despite a ceasefire agreed upon in November 2024 between Lebanon and Israel. Even so, military entities continue to use Lebanese soil to target Israeli civilians.
U.S efforts continue to encourage Lebanon’s government to disarm Hezbollah and plan IDF’s staged withdrawal. Upcoming talks are set for September in Rome. A State Department official confirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts, acknowledging challenges posed by Hezbollah’s interference.
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