Ibrahim Aqil, a top Hezbollah figure, was killed by Israeli forces in Beirut as tensions escalated.
According to the New York Post, the attack targeted Ibrahim Aqil amidst allegations of new terror plots against Israel.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that their precision operation, based on intelligence, struck down Aqil, who was part of Hezbollah’s Jihad Council and known by the alias “Tahsin.” Authorities implicated him in several high-profile attacks against American and Israeli interests during the 1980s, including the tragic 1983 bombing of the US embassy and the Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.
This year marked the 40th anniversary of another deadly attack attributed to Aqil—a car bombing of the US embassy annex in East Beirut that claimed 23 lives. The US had recently offered a $7 million reward for information leading to his capture, highlighting his ongoing threat.
In addition, Lebanese officials reported significant casualties from the recent strike, with 12 people killed and 66 others injured, including nine in serious condition. The strike occurred in Beirut’s heavily damaged southern suburbs.
"Since October 8, Hezbollah has launched thousands of rockets and missiles at civilian targets in Israel," said IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. Their actions prompted an Israeli tactical response to dismantle Hezbollah's capability by eliminating key figures, including Aqil.
The strike on Aqil was part of a broader series of operations by Israel against Hezbollah that demonstrated Israel’s operational readiness and resolve. Within days prior, Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency had effectively targeted Hezbollah communication devices reportedly resulting in numerous Hezbollah casualties.
John Kirby, a spokesman for the White House National Security Council, acknowledged the lack of pre-notification of the strikes by Israel to the United States. Such independence in Israeli military operations is consistent with prior conduct.
The operations by Israel followed a clear approval by Israel’s security cabinet to secure the northern regions, nearing a broader military campaign as stated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This transition underlines a very low likelihood of settling the conflict through political dialogue alone.
Despite the ongoing military approach by Israel, US President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of finding a diplomatic resolution. In a cabinet meeting, he expressed his hope for a peaceful settlement that would ensure security for residents in both northern Israel and southern Lebanon.
To pursue this objective, American diplomatic efforts continue tirelessly. “We believe, and continue to believe, that a diplomatic solution is the best way forward,” Kirby reiterated, aiming to mitigate further military conflicts.
As the situation develops, the IDF has vowed to continue its operations to prevent further civilian casualties and escalations in threats from Hezbollah. Their latest actions, including the targeting of Ibrahim Aqil, serve as a testament to Israel’s commitment to national security and regional stability.
With the death of Aqil, attention shifts to the potential implications for Hezbollah's operations and whether this significant blow will hinder or incite further conflict in the region. Both immediate and broader geopolitical impacts remain closely watched by global leaders and diplomats, who still hope for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflicts.
