Judge Adel Abdel Salam Gomaa said the investigation proved the group intended "to strike Egypt's economy, destroy the bonds between its people and create chaos and instability throughout the country.”

The emergency state security court sentenced the men — who included Lebanese, Palestinians, Egyptians and one Sudanese — to jail terms ranging from six months to life. Some were convicted in absentia.

Among those tried was Sami Chehab, also named as Mohamed Youssef Mansour Ahmed, who received a jail term of 15 years. He was present in court, placed with the others inside a cage.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah last year confirmed Chehab was a member of the group but denied he committed any crime, saying Chehab was only involved in helping equip Palestinians in their fight against Israel.

Defense Attorney Montasser Zayat said three of those convicted received life sentences, which he said in Egyptian law was equivalent to 25 years.

Egypt's relations with Hezbollah have been strained since the group called Egypt a "partner in crime" with Israel against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Egypt has said Nasrallah was trying to create chaos in the region to serve the interests of others.

Nasrallah had said no more than 10 people had cooperated with Chehab, rather than the 26 Egypt accused.