Israel Launches Airstrike in Beirut, Kills Senior Hizbullah Official

Israel conducted an airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut on October 1, 2024, marking its first military action in Lebanon since June. The Israeli Defense Forces announced the strike resulted in the death of Hizbullah’s chief of staff, Haytham Tabtabai, and caused injuries to at least 25 individuals, according to the Lebanese health ministry. This incident has heightened tensions in the region, particularly given its timing, nearly one year after a ceasefire was brokered between Israel and Hizbullah.

The Israeli military indicated that the strike aimed to deter Hizbullah from rearming after the conflict that took place last year. In a statement, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the need to act decisively against any threats to Israel’s northern regions, insisting that residents in those areas should continue their daily routines. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu accused Tabtabai of spearheading efforts to rebuild Hizbullah’s military capabilities, which Israel asserts are ongoing despite the ceasefire.

Hizbullah confirmed the death of Tabtabai, stating that the strike could provoke an escalation of hostilities. The group’s deputy chair, Mahmoud Qamati, indicated that Hizbullah’s leadership was evaluating its response to the airstrike. He warned that such attacks could lead to broader conflicts throughout Lebanon.

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun condemned the airstrike, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. He urged the international community to intervene forcefully to halt Israeli attacks on Lebanon. The Lebanese government has expressed its commitment to disarming all non-state actors, including Hizbullah, though it also faces challenges in terms of military resources, as its army is currently underfunded.

The airstrike occurred shortly before a scheduled visit by Pope Leo to Lebanon, raising concerns about potential escalations in violence during this sensitive time. Video footage from the scene showed significant destruction, with reports indicating that the strike hit a residential building, a claim supported by Hizbullah parliamentarian Ali Ammar, who described the area as civilian and devoid of military presence.

Israel has intensified its air operations over southern Lebanon in recent weeks, responding to perceived threats from Hizbullah. The group has not engaged in direct conflict with Israel since the ceasefire took effect, although it did launch a series of rockets in December 2023 that landed in uninhabited areas as a warning.

The situation remains precarious, with ongoing tensions between Israel and Hizbullah and international observers, including United Nations peacekeepers, monitoring the developments closely. Lebanon’s government is exploring negotiations with Israel aimed at stopping airstrikes and addressing territorial disputes. Yet, it remains uncertain whether Israel will agree to such discussions, particularly given the ongoing claims regarding Hizbullah’s military activities.

As the aftermath of this strike unfolds, the potential for increased violence looms large in a region already fraught with instability.