A Shia cleric widely known for his criticism of the Shia Hezbollah has been arrested in Lebanon on charges of collaborating with and spying for Israel, according to Lebanon security officials.

Associated Press identified the clergyman as Mohammad Ali al-Husseini, who has been detained in south Lebanon near the Israeli border.,

In the past two years, more than 100 Lebanese figures, including politicians, businessmen and army personnel have been similarly charged – a few have even been sentenced to death, though no such execution have been carried out.

Husseini will be referred to military court if the charges are confirmed, according to the official.

Conspiring with Israel is an extremely serious charge since Lebanon and Israel technical at war with each other.

Hezbollah, which is believed to be financed by Iran, fought a war against Israel in 2006.

Court Israel Israel