Hezbollah in Venezuela: Concerns and Denouncements
- Republican Senator Bernie Moreno recently consulted with Matthew Levitt, former Treasury Undersecretary of Intelligence and Analysis, regarding the potential for increased
- According to Levitt, "I don't no if there has been an increase in the presence of Hezbollah in the country.
- Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group, has a history of operating in Latin America, primarily engaging in fundraising, money laundering, and logistical support.The Tri-Border...
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Concerns Raised over Potential hezbollah Activity in Colombia Under Petro Administration
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Published October 22, 2025, at 03:24 AM EDT
Republican Senator Bernie Moreno recently consulted with Matthew Levitt, former Treasury Undersecretary of Intelligence and Analysis, regarding the potential for increased Hezbollah activity in colombia under the administration of President Gustavo Petro. Levitt expressed concern over a perceived decrease in collaborative efforts between the United States and Colombia to address this issue.
According to Levitt, “I don’t no if there has been an increase in the presence of Hezbollah in the country. Before this administration there was much more joint effort than there is now, in cooperating with the United States and other countries, to tackle the problem.” This statement suggests a shift in the security dynamic between the two nations.
Background: Hezbollah’s Activities in Latin America
Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group, has a history of operating in Latin America, primarily engaging in fundraising, money laundering, and logistical support.The Tri-Border Area (Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay) has long been identified as a key hub for these activities, but concerns have expanded to other countries in the region, including Colombia. The U.S.State Department regularly assesses the threat posed by hezbollah in the region.
Historically, Hezbollah has leveraged its networks in Latin America to generate funds through illicit activities, such as drug trafficking, counterfeiting, and the operation of front businesses. These funds are then used to support the group’s operations in Lebanon and elsewhere. The group’s presence in the region also raises concerns about potential terrorist attacks or the facilitation of travel for operatives.
The Petro Administration and US-Colombia Relations
Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president, assumed office in August 2022. His administration has pursued a policy of ”Total Peace,” aiming to negotiate with various armed groups, including the ELN (National Liberation Army). This policy shift has raised concerns among some in the United States regarding the potential for weakening security cooperation and creating opportunities for illicit actors.
Prior to Petro’s administration, Colombia was a key US ally in the fight against drug trafficking and terrorism. The two countries enjoyed close military and intelligence cooperation. Levitt’s comments suggest that this level of cooperation has diminished under the current administration.