Israeli forces launch airstrike in Beiruts southern suburb targeting Hezbollah leader

Israeli Forces Launch Attack on Beirut’s Southern Suburbs

A bombing raid was reported in Beirut’s southern suburbs, with Israeli warplanes targeting the Ghobeiri area. According to reports from Lebanon’s National News Agency, a loud explosion and extensive damage were observed in the area.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the attack, stating that he and Defence Minister Israel Katz had instructed the army to carry out the operation. Netanyahu claimed that Radwan Force commander Malek Balou was assassinated during the attack.

Hezbollah has not yet released an official statement regarding the Israeli claim. However, since the truce in the Israel-Hezbollah war went into force on April 17, there have been ongoing tensions between the two parties over alleged ceasefire violations.

According to Al Jazeera’s Obaida Hitto, reporting from Tyre, the attack occurred at a time of relative calm in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The area had seen an increase in population since the start of the ceasefire, with videos showing streets filled with people.

Israeli forces have continued to strike Lebanon’s south and east despite the truce, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 people on Wednesday. An Israeli strike in Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley killed four people, while the army reported striking Hezbollah targets in the south.

Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for several operations targeting Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, as well as attacks on northern Israel. The conflict between Israel and Lebanon has resulted in over 2,700 civilian deaths since March 2, including dozens since the April 17 ceasefire.

Source: Al Jazeera