Explainer: What happened today in the southern suburb of Beirut?
Israel announced it struck what it described as the “central headquarters” of Hezbollah in Beirut’s southern suburb, using F-35 fighter jets equipped with bunker-busting bombs. According to Israeli Army Radio, the attack was the most severe since the 2006 Lebanon war. The attack has reportedly leveled 6 buildings, where hundreds of people were present.
What Happened During the Airstrikes?
The Israeli military launched a series of airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburb on Friday, creating loud explosions that echoed across the city and instilled fear among residents. Plumes of smoke were visible across multiple locations in the area. The strikes targeted a Hezbollah facility, with Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari claiming the attack aimed at Hezbollah’s ‘command center’.
Israeli media reported that the strikes might have killed senior Iranian Quds Force leaders as well, though no official confirmation has been made. While it was speculated that Hassan Nasrallah was present at the headquarters during the attack, conclusive evidence of his death has yet to surface.
Who Was Targeted in the Strike?
According to Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari, the strike targeted Hezbollah’s “central headquarters” located beneath residential buildings in the heart of Beirut’s southern suburb. Israeli sources claim that the operation aimed to eliminate Nasrallah, with Channel 12 reporting that Israel had been planning this strike for some time, only launching it after receiving “critical intelligence.”
In response, sources close to Hezbollah informed Reuters that while the airstrikes destroyed six buildings, Nasrallah is safe. Iranian news outlet Tasnim also confirmed that both Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine, Hezbollah’s Executive Council head, were unharmed.
Is Hassan Nasrallah Dead?
Conflicting reports surround Nasrallah’s status. Israeli media outlets such as Yedioth Ahronoth and Channel 12 suggested the airstrikes specifically targeted him. Israel’s military is reportedly investigating whether Nasrallah was in the command center when it was bombed, with some officials expressing optimism that the operation succeeded. Axios quoted an Israeli official who indicated that there are signs Nasrallah was at the site and that his chances of survival were slim.
However, Hezbollah-affiliated sources and Iranian media deny these claims, insisting Nasrallah remains unharmed. The party has yet to release an official statement on the matter, leaving the situation unresolved.
What Were the Casualties and Damage?
According to Lebanese health officials, the Israeli airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburb left at least two people dead and 76 others injured. The death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue teams continue to clear the rubble. Six buildings in the densely populated Haret Hreik neighborhood were completely destroyed, further amplifying the scale of devastation.
What Is the US Position on the Beirut Strike?
The US Department of Defense offered a mixed response to the airstrikes. Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh stated that the US had no prior knowledge of Israel’s operation and was not involved. Nevertheless, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Yoav Gallant, during the attack, raising questions about the level of communication between the two sides.
Contradicting the Pentagon’s claim, Israeli media reported that Israel informed the US shortly before launching the operation. These inconsistencies cast doubt on the full extent of US involvement and coordination with Israel.
How Has the United Nations Responded?
The United Nations expressed significant concern over Israel’s airstrikes in Beirut. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric described the images of smoke billowing from densely populated areas as alarming and emphasized the need for further information regarding the attack. The UN is closely monitoring the situation, though no further action has been announced.