Israel Launches Targeted Strike in Beirut, Claims Major Hezbollah Casualties

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Israel has conducted a targeted strike in Beirut, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking Hezbollah figures, including the commander of the group’s elite Radwan Force, Ibrahim Aqil. This military action follows a recent barrage of approximately 140 rockets fired by Hezbollah towards Israeli territory.

Aqil was accused of orchestrating numerous attacks against Israel and was previously designated a high-value target, with a $7 million bounty placed on him by the U.S. government due to his alleged involvement in fatal incidents dating back to 1983, including bombings that claimed hundreds of lives at the American embassy and a Marine barracks in Beirut.

Israeli military officials emphasized the severity of Aqil’s actions, describing him as having “large amounts of blood on his hands” and holding responsibility for the deaths of many innocent civilians. The strikes were executed shortly after Hezbollah’s rocket fire, which, while extensive, reportedly caused minimal damage.

This recent military engagement is part of a broader Israeli offensive against Hezbollah, which has resulted in significant casualties, including at least 37 fatalities and thousands injured from prior attacks involving exploding electronic devices in Lebanon. The Israeli government has not provided specific details on these earlier operations.

In response to the heightened conflict, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has vowed retaliation against Israel, escalating the tension in the region. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has indicated that the nation has entered a “new phase” in its operations against Hezbollah, with the stated goal of enabling the return of approximately 60,000 residents displaced by the ongoing conflict.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed this commitment, stating that Israel’s objectives are clear and that their actions will reflect their determination. Despite the military escalation, the U.S. is advocating for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis, emphasizing the need to prevent further escalation in Lebanon. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby reiterated that U.S. efforts are focused on achieving a peaceful outcome in the region.

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