Israel killed prominent Hezbollah officials, including Ibrahim Aqil, during an airstrike in Beirut. The current battle between Israel and the organization sponsored by Iran has escalated dramatically as a result of the Israeli airstrike in Beirut. Aqil’s death was verified by Hezbollah, who called it a treacherous Israeli assassination.
The incident happened in the southern suburbs of Beirut, in Dahiyeh, and left several others injured in addition to at least 14 fatalities. A security source reported numerous missile strikes, indicating that the operation specifically targeted Aqil and other commanders during their meeting. Witnesses reported hearing loud booms and chaos in the area after the strike.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would not relent until security is restored and that his country’s objectives remain unambiguous. Yoav Gallant, Israel’s minister of defense, said that Israel wants to ensure that residents of northern Israel may return home securely.
After firing Katyusha rockets in response at Israeli intelligence sites, Hezbollah vowed to intensify hostilities. The violence has increased since Hezbollah began shooting missiles into Israel in support of the Palestinians in the ongoing Gaza conflict.
This is the second airstrike against a prominent Hezbollah figure in recent months. Israel assassinated Hezbollah’s top military leader, Fuad Shukr, in July. The United States placed a $7 million reward on Aqil’s head due to his connections to previous assaults.
The Israeli military made it clear that Aqil had a crucial role in organizing activities against the country. General Herzi Halevi stated that Israel will fight anyone who poses a threat to its citizens. At the time of the strike, there were still worries about the violence potentially spreading across the border.
The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon condemned the Israeli airstrike in Beirut, calling it a dangerous cycle of violence. Emotions are rising, and both sides are under more and more pressure to find a way to keep things from getting worse.
