The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet confirmed striking a Hezbollah operative in Beirut on Tuesday. The target reportedly assisted Hamas in planning an imminent terror attack against Israeli civilians.
Lebanon’s health ministry reported three deaths and seven injuries from the strike in the Dahiyeh suburb, a Hezbollah stronghold. While the U.S. supported Israel’s action, Lebanon condemned it. President Joseph Aoun criticized Hezbollah for provoking the attack, while a Hezbollah lawmaker demanded a state response.
According to sources, the strike targeted Hassan Bdair, Hezbollah’s deputy head for the Palestinian file. It remains unclear if he was among those killed. The IDF is expected to release further details.
This was Israel’s second attack on Beirut since the November 27 ceasefire with Hezbollah. The first came after rockets were fired at northern Israel, which Hezbollah denied launching. The ceasefire agreement allows Israel to act against imminent threats.
Eyewitnesses reported the targeted strike damaged the top three floors of a building. Unlike Friday’s strike, this one came without evacuation warnings, prompting families to flee the area.
Lebanon’s leadership condemned the strike, calling it a violation of U.N. Resolution 1701, which required Hezbollah’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon—terms the group never fully honored. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam called it a “clear breach” of the ceasefire.
Despite the ceasefire, Hezbollah has attacked northern Israel almost daily since October 8, 2023, following Hamas’s assault that killed 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages. While Israel has partially withdrawn from Lebanon, tensions remain high, with Hezbollah warning of “other alternatives” if attacks persist.
