Israel Strikes Hezbollah Chief in Beirut, Escalation Fears Rise
BREAKING: Israel launched a significant airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs early Sunday, targeting a senior Hezbollah official for the first time since June. The attack, which resulted in 5 deaths and 25 injuries, raises urgent concerns about escalating tensions in the region, just days ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s scheduled visit to Lebanon.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the strike was aimed at preventing Hezbollah from rearming, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its northern territories. “We will continue to act forcefully against any threats to the residents of the north and the state of Israel,” Katz declared.
Eyewitness reports from the Haret Hreik area confirmed that Israeli drones were active in the vicinity prior to the strike. Smoke filled the streets as emergency workers rushed to the scene, with videos circulating on social media showing crowds gathering amid the chaos. A local resident, Maryam Assaf, expressed her anger, stating, “This only gives us more determination, strength, and dignity.”
Hezbollah’s deputy political leader, Mahmoud Qamati, indicated that a high-ranking militant may have been killed but did not provide further details. He warned that this attack could trigger a broader escalation of violence across Lebanon. “The strike on the southern suburbs today opens the door to an escalation of assaults all over Lebanon,” Qamati said.
The strike comes nearly a year after a ceasefire ended the last Israel-Hezbollah war, which began on October 8, 2023, following Hamas’ attacks in southern Israel. That conflict resulted in over 4,000 deaths in Lebanon, including hundreds of civilians, and extensive destruction estimated at $11 billion.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the strike, accusing Israel of violating ceasefire agreements and calling for international intervention to safeguard Lebanon. His administration is reportedly ready to negotiate with Israel to halt ongoing airstrikes and disarm Hezbollah.
As tensions mount, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The United Nations peacekeepers have voiced concerns over Israel’s recent military actions in Lebanon, alleging continued violations of the ceasefire.
Authorities in Israel have not confirmed whether they informed the U.S. before the strike. However, Israeli officials assert their right to act independently in matters of national security.
The aftermath of this strike signals a potential turning point in the already fragile stability of the region. Observers are left wondering how Hezbollah will respond and what implications this might have for Lebanon’s security landscape in the coming days.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
