An Israeli airstrike targeted a Hezbollah commander in Beirut’s southern suburbs on Tuesday, according to two security sources in Lebanon. The strike, part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign against the Iran-backed militant group, marked the second consecutive day of attacks on Hezbollah-controlled areas in the Lebanese capital. The identity and status of the commander targeted remain undisclosed.
The Israeli military confirmed that a precision strike had been conducted in Beirut but provided no further details. The airstrike hit a building in the Ghobeiry neighborhood, a typically bustling area. Security sources shared images showing damage to the top floor of a five-story structure.
The attack comes as Israel intensifies its military operations against Hezbollah. The group has been launching rockets into Israel in support of Hamas, which has been engaged in its own conflict with Israel in Gaza. The Israeli military, under Chief of General Staff Herzi Halevi, announced plans to accelerate attacks on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
A day earlier, Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon reportedly killed over 500 people, including 50 children and 94 women, according to Lebanese authorities. Additionally, 1,835 people were injured, and tens of thousands have fled their homes seeking safety. The humanitarian crisis has prompted growing calls for diplomacy, with UN human rights chief Volker Turk urging all parties to prevent further escalation.
White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution, emphasizing the need for de-escalation between Israel and Hezbollah to allow displaced civilians to return home. However, with both sides continuing to exchange fire, fears of a broader conflict in the region persist.
