A United States (U.S.) intelligence official told ABC News that Israel had likely been planning an explosive device operation against Hezbollah for close to 15 years.
Such an operation requires a lengthy process of setting up shell companies, with multiple layers of subterfuge to insert agents into the supply chain, a source told ABC News.
Some of those involved would not be aware that they were serving Israeli intelligence, the official added.
The source also said the CIA had avoided using such an attack in the past because of what was considered a high risk to civilians.
To recall, this week Israel carried out two attacks with explosive devices planted in pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah.
Several dozen people were killed in the attacks, and several thousand were injured.
