The Israeli military confirmed Tabatabai’s death and warned Hezbollah against rearming, citing the group’s efforts to rebuild its military capabilities in southern Lebanon

By Asaye Bankole

Israel launched airstrikes on Beirut, killing five people and wounding 25, in an attack targeting Hezbollah’s chief of staff, Haytham Tabatabai, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health.

The Israeli military confirmed Tabatabai’s death and warned Hezbollah against rearming, citing the group’s efforts to rebuild its military capabilities in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah has confirmed Tabatabai’s death and warned that the attack could escalate hostilities, especially with Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to Lebanon.

This strike marks the first Israeli attack on Beirut since June, although Israeli air strikes have intensified in southern Lebanon over recent weeks.

The attack comes amid ongoing pressure from Israel and the United States for Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, a condition of the ceasefire deal that ended the war a year ago.
Lebanon’s government denies Israel’s claims that Hezbollah is rebuilding its military capabilities.

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed the country’s commitment to disarming all non-state actors, including Hezbollah, as part of its efforts to maintain national security and sovereignty.

This stance comes amid ongoing tensions with Israel and pressure from the international community, particularly the United States, to curb Hezbollah’s military capabilities.

Aoun’s assertion is in line with the Lebanese government’s plan to implement a ceasefire agreement brokered by the US in November 2024, which stipulates that all armed groups in Lebanon must disarm.

However, Hezbollah has resisted this move, viewing it as a threat to its power and influence in the country.

The situation remains volatile, with Israel launching strikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including a recent attack in Beirut that killed a senior Hezbollah official.

The international community is urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.

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