BEIRUT — Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed the death of its leader, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in what is said to be a targeted airstrike by Israel in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
The attack occurred on Friday amid significant escalation in the ongoing hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces. Israeli military stated that Nasrallah was killed along with other senior commanders, including Ali Karaki, during a strike aimed at disrupting terrorist activities.
Israeli officials termed operation as a critical move to weaken Hezbollah’s leadership, asserting that Nasrallah could no longer pose a threat to regional stability.
Hassan Nasrallah was a key figure in the Iranian-backed nexus which has been instrumental in projecting Iranian influence across the Middle East. Nasrullah death is expected to have far-reaching implications not only for Hezbollah but also for neighboring countries.
In the aftermath of the airstrikes, which were described as the most intense on Beirut during the current conflict, residents reported more than 20 powerful blasts that left substantial damage in the Dahiyeh area. Thousands of people have fled their homes, seeking safety in public spaces across the city.
One displaced resident expressed concerns about the destruction, stating, “They want to destroy Dahiyeh and all of us.” Many of those forced to evacuate have taken refuge in Martyrs Square, where they are attempting to sleep on makeshift mats as the situation remains tense.
As Hezbollah vows to continue its battle against Israel, the region watches closely for potential further escalation in violence.
