Israeli Airstrike Targets Hezbollah Leader Ibrahim Aqil
In a significant escalation of military tensions, an Israeli airstrike on Friday struck a residential building in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon, targeting prominent Hezbollah leader Ibrahim Aqil, also known as Tahseen. This operation marks a critical moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, as Aqil is considered the second-in-command of the militant group, following the recent death of Fouad Shukr in a similar Israeli raid.
Background on Ibrahim Aqil
Ibrahim Aqil has been a key figure in Hezbollah, commanding the elite Radwan Force and serving as a member of the Jihad Council, which is the highest military body within the organization. His notoriety has been recognized internationally; in April 2023, the US State Department placed a $7 million bounty on information leading to his capture. Additionally, Aqil has been designated as a global terrorist by the US since September 2019, with previous sanctions dating back to 2015. His involvement in the Islamic Jihad organization during the 1980s, which was responsible for the bombings of the US embassy and Marine barracks in Beirut, further cements his controversial legacy.
Immediate Aftermath of the Airstrike
Following the airstrike, Israeli Army Radio reported that the operation was aimed at a Hezbollah military meeting, although it remains uncertain if Aqil was killed in the attack. According to Al Jazeera, the Israeli aircraft launched three missiles at the targeted building, which is located in a densely populated area filled with residential homes and shops. The Lebanese News Agency confirmed that the strikes were carried out by an Israeli F-35 aircraft, indicating a sophisticated military capability. As the situation unfolds, the implications of this strike could have significant repercussions for both Hezbollah and the broader geopolitical landscape in the region.
