Israel has announced that it conducted a targeted strike in the southern suburbs of Beirut, killing a senior Hezbollah commander, Fuad Shukr, whom it accuses of orchestrating a recent deadly attack on the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights.
In a statement released late Tuesday, the Israeli military confirmed that Israeli Air Force fighter jets carried out the operation, which resulted in the death of Shukr, who was described as the head of Hezbollah’s Strategic Unit and a key lieutenant to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The strike is said to be in retaliation for a rocket attack that occurred on Saturday in Majdal Shams, a village in the Golan Heights, killing 12 children and wounding several others.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese militia and political movement supported by Iran, has denied involvement in the attack on the Golan Heights. Israel has yet to provide evidence confirming Shukr’s death, and Hezbollah has not responded to the strike in Beirut or the claims regarding Shukr.
The targeted strike led to a large explosion in Beirut’s southern suburbs, causing significant damage and resulting in road closures and emergency response efforts. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as residents rushed to the site of the explosion, fearing for their families’ safety.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Hezbollah had “crossed the red line” with its actions, and reiterated Israel’s stance that while it is prepared for further conflict, its aim is not to escalate the situation into a full-scale war. The international community has been calling for restraint from both parties, concerned that further escalation could lead to broader conflict.
Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari emphasized that Israel is in close communication with the United States and its allies, and remains focused on resolving the situation while preparing for any potential escalation.
The U.S. has supported Israel’s right to self-defense but also advocates for diplomatic efforts to address ongoing regional tensions.
