Israeli Airstrike Targets Hezbollah Leader Ibrahim Aqil in Beirut
In a significant escalation of hostilities, the Israeli army has confirmed the assassination of Ibrahim Aqil, a senior military leader of Hezbollah, during a targeted airstrike in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The strike, which occurred on Friday, has raised alarms regarding security breaches within the militant group, particularly following a series of earlier bombings that have resulted in substantial casualties.
Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari stated that the air force executed a 'precise raid' aimed at a Hezbollah military meeting, resulting in Aqil's death along with several other leaders from the Radwan unit. This unit is known for its elite operational capabilities, and the loss of its leaders is a considerable blow to Hezbollah’s military structure.
Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi, a military and strategic expert, highlighted the implications of this attack, noting it as a 'major security breach' for Hezbollah. He pointed out that such vulnerabilities are typically associated with conventional armies rather than a resistance group like Hezbollah. Al-Duwairi also speculated that the breach could stem from procedural errors or possibly the presence of a spy, given the high-profile nature of the meeting that was targeted.
The recent airstrike marks the third such incident since October 8, when Hezbollah opened its southern front against Israel in solidarity with Hamas amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that at least three individuals were killed and 17 injured as a result of the strike, which was described as targeting a residential building near the Al-Qaem mosque.
Al-Duwairi expressed concerns over the gathering of approximately 20 elite leaders in one location, especially under current security threats. He questioned the decision to hold such a critical meeting in an exposed area instead of utilizing the underground tunnels that the group has previously showcased. The expert emphasized the importance of precautionary measures in light of recent attacks, suggesting that leaders should prioritize their safety over operational discussions.
As tensions continue to escalate, the implications of this targeted strike extend beyond immediate military losses, raising questions about the future of Hezbollah's operations and its capacity to respond to Israeli actions. The assassination of Ibrahim Aqil, who has been on the U.S. wanted list since 1983 with a bounty of $7 million for information leading to his capture, underscores the high stakes involved in this ongoing conflict.
