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Hezbollah to Halt Venezuela Operations After Maduro's Capture

1/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that following Nicolás Maduro's capture, Hezbollah will cease operations in Venezuela.
He emphasized the United States' commitment to countering Iranian influence in the region.
Reports indicate Hezbollah has targeted Iranian dissidents and engaged in drug trafficking in Venezuela.
Iran condemned the U.S. operation, saying its alliance with Venezuela remains unchanged.

History

Historical Context

Since 2005, the U.S. has expressed concerns over Venezuela's narcotics trafficking and its ties to Hezbollah, particularly after Nicolás Maduro's presidency began in 2013. In 2019, the U.S. intensified sanctions against Maduro's regime, aiming to curb Iranian influence in Latin America, reminiscent of past interventions like the 1989 Panama invasion. This ongoing geopolitical struggle continues to shape regional alliances and stability.

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Story summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that following Nicolás Maduro's capture, Hezbollah will cease operations in Venezuela.
He emphasized the United States' commitment to countering Iranian influence in the region.
Reports indicate Hezbollah has targeted Iranian dissidents and engaged in drug trafficking in Venezuela.
Iran condemned the U.S. operation, saying its alliance with Venezuela remains unchanged.

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