Beirut (Web Desk): The Israeli military has claimed responsibility for an airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut, which reportedly killed Hezbollah's Chief of Staff, Heitham Ali Tabatabai. The Israeli Prime Minister's office stated that the strike was carried out under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu, targeting a key Hezbollah commander involved in the group's military activities, including weapons procurement and restructuring efforts.
Hezbollah confirmed Tabatabai's death along with five of his companions, condemning the attack as crossing a "red line." Senior Hezbollah leader Mohammad Qamti said that discussions for a retaliatory response were ongoing.
The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that 28 civilians were also injured in the airstrikes, which targeted a major road. Local residents reported hearing Israeli jets before the explosions.
Prime Minister Netanyahu stated in a cabinet meeting that Israel would continue its fight against terrorism on multiple fronts. In recent weeks, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have increased, with the aim of halting Hezbollah's military activity along the border.
Hezbollah has maintained that it has removed its military presence near Israel's border in compliance with the Lebanese army’s deployment requirements, yet Israeli attacks continue.
A senior U.S. official confirmed that Israel did not inform the U.S. prior to the attack but notified Washington shortly after. Another official indicated that the U.S. was aware of Israel’s plans to intensify operations in Lebanon.
Lebanese President Michel Aoun called on the international community to take immediate and decisive action to halt Israeli airstrikes, urging global actors to fulfill their duties and protect Lebanon and its people from further aggression.