Israel has killed Haytham Ali Tabatabai, identified by the Israeli military as Hezbollah’s chief of staff, in an airstrike in Beirut’s southern suburbs. The strike, which Lebanon's health ministry reported killed at least five people and wounded 28, dramatically escalates tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, occurring almost a year after a ceasefire ended previous clashes.
Hezbollah confirmed a senior commander was targeted, with one official stating the strike crossed a "new red line" and was clearly aimed at a key figure. Videos from the scene showed damaged buildings in the densely populated Hezbollah stronghold of Haret Hreik.
Israel stated the strike targeted Tabatabai, who was leading the organization's buildup and rearmament, and reiterated its determination to act against terrorism on all fronts. The US was reportedly not notified in advance by Israel, though administration officials had been aware of potential escalations in Lebanon.
Tabatabai, 58, a long-time Hezbollah member, had previously survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 2015 and was sanctioned by the US for his role in leading Hezbollah forces in Syria and tutoring Houthi forces in Yemen, both closely allied with Iran. He had also evaded earlier Israeli strikes against Hezbollah leadership following the October 7th attacks.
Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun called for international intervention to stop Israeli attacks. Hezbollah asserts it has adhered to ceasefire requirements regarding its military presence near the Israeli border.
Israeli media had previously indicated Lebanon as a potential immediate flashpoint for escalation.
