Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, following what is reported as a targeted airstrike by Israel in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The strike, which occurred on Friday, is part of a significant escalation in hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. The Israeli military stated that Nasrallah was killed alongside other senior commanders, including Ali Karaki, in an operation aimed at disrupting terrorist activities.
Israeli officials have characterized the operation as a crucial step in weakening Hezbollah’s leadership, claiming that Nasrallah can no longer threaten regional stability.
As a key figure in the Iranian-backed alliance that has extended Iranian influence across the Middle East, Nasrallah’s death is expected to have wide-ranging implications for Hezbollah and neighboring countries.
Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah Killed Amid Rising Tensions in Israel-Lebanon Conflict.
In the wake of the airstrikes, described as the most intense in Beirut during the current conflict, residents reported over 20 powerful explosions that caused significant damage in the Dahiyeh area. Thousands have fled their homes in search of safety, with many seeking refuge in public spaces throughout the city.
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One displaced resident voiced concerns about the destruction, stating, “They want to destroy Dahiyeh and all of us.” Many evacuees have taken shelter in Martyrs Square, where they are trying to sleep on makeshift mats amid ongoing tensions.
As Hezbollah vows to persist in its battle against Israel, the region remains on high alert for possible further escalation of violence.