Israel's military has killed Haitham Ali al-Tabtabai, a senior member of the militant group Hezbollah, in an air strike on the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, Beirut, despite a ceasefire.
It described al-Tabtabai, Hezbollah's chief of staff, as a veteran of the group with a series of senior positions.
Lebanon's health ministry reported at least five fatalities and 28 injuries from the strike, which targeted an apartment building in the densely populated Dahieh district.
Hezbollah confirmed al-Tabtabai's death, emphasizing that Israel had overstepped a 'red line' with the strike.
The operation marks Israel's first attack on southern Beirut in months and comes as tensions rise after Hezbollah's increased aggression linked to regional conflicts.
Israeli officials contend that Hezbollah is attempting to bolster its military capabilities, smuggling weapons, and enhancing drone production, raising concerns over further escalation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that under his leadership, Israel would not permit Hezbollah to re-emerge as a threat, urging the Lebanese government to disarm the group.
In response, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged the international community to pressure Israel to cease its attacks, describing the actions as a violation of agreements intended to end ongoing conflict.
The latest conflict was initiated following Hezbollah rocket fire into Israel shortly after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, with the Lebanese group claiming solidarity with Palestinians.
Following the strikes, Lebanon reported about 4,000 deaths due to Israeli military actions, including many civilians, with displacements exceeding 1.2 million residents. Israeli losses included over 80 soldiers and 47 civilians.
The U.S. previously sanctioned al-Tabtabai in 2016, labeling him a terrorist and offering a $5 million reward for information leading to his capture.
The U.S. has characterized him as a crucial military commander for Hezbollah, contributing to training and operations in Syria and Yemen.
