In a significant escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Israeli F-35 fighter jets bombed Beirut, killing 12 people, including senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil.
Aqil, a founding member of Hezbollah and leader of its elite Rizwan Force, was a crucial figure in the group’s military operations. His death represents a major setback for Hezbollah, as he was previously linked to the 1983 attacks on U.S. forces that resulted in 241 deaths.
The airstrike targeted a busy area in Beirut, causing extensive destruction. Several buildings and vehicles were damaged, and 66 people were injured.
In retaliation, Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets at Israeli targets. While most were intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, a few struck northern Israel, further escalating hostilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the airstrike as a direct response to ongoing threats, reaffirming Israel’s commitment to securing its northern border with Lebanon. “Our objectives are clear, and our actions speak for themselves,” he stated, emphasizing Israel’s determination.