Hezbollah confirms death of key leader Hashem Safieddine in Israeli airstrike

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Hezbollah confirms death of key leader Hashem Safieddine in Israeli airstrike
Source: File Photo

Beirut (Web Desk): Lebanese group Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its high-ranking leader, Hashem Safieddine, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting southern Beirut nearly three weeks ago.

Safieddine, who headed Hezbollah’s executive council, was anticipated to become the group’s next leader following the recent passing of Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli attack.

In an official statement, Hezbollah expressed deep sorrow over Safieddine’s loss, highlighting his dedication to the organization and pledging to continue their “path of resistance” until their goals of “freedom and victory” are achieved.

Israel announced on Tuesday that the airstrike that resulted in Safieddine’s death was part of a broader campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon.

This escalation follows a year marked by ongoing cross-border hostilities between the two sides, intensified by Israel’s recent offensive on Gaza.

Since October 2023, Israeli military operations have led to the deaths of at least 2,546 individuals and injuries to over 11,860, as reported by Lebanese health authorities.

The situation escalated further on October 1, when Israel launched a ground invasion into southern Lebanon.