An unexploded American GBU-39B bomb landing in Beirut during an Israeli strike has triggered a major confrontation involving the United States, Lebanon, Hezbollah, and potentially Russia, China, and Iran. The intact precision-guided weapon was reportedly secured by Hezbollah and Lebanese security personnel, with viral images showing the bomb in clean condition and sparking fears in Washington that its advanced components could be studied by rival powers. The U.S. has issued an urgent demand for the bomb’s immediate return, warning that even brief access could help adversaries accelerate counter-precision research and undermine years of investment in GPS-guided munitions. Reports suggest Hezbollah may keep the bomb as leverage, while Lebanon’s muted response reflects internal political dynamics. The incident unfolds as Israel-Hezbollah tensions rise despite the 2024 ceasefire, increasing pressure on U.S. officials to prevent any sensitive technology leak.

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