A deadly Beirut strike on the outskirts of the Lebanese capital has raised tension across the region after targeting Hezbollah’s acting chief of staff, Ali Tabtabai. The attack, which hit the Haret Hreik suburb, was the first of its kind near Beirut in months, according to a statement from the Israeli military.
Hezbollah soon confirmed Tabtabai’s death. In its statement, the group described him as a “great jihadist commander” who continued to confront Israel until his last moments. The group did not reveal details about his exact role but highlighted his importance within its leadership.
Following the Beirut strike, senior Hezbollah official Mahmoud Qmati visited the damaged site. He said the attack crossed a “red line,” signalling that the group now faces a critical decision on how to respond. He added that Hezbollah’s leadership would discuss possible actions in the coming days.
Lebanon’s health ministry reported that five people were killed in the strike. Another 28 were wounded when the attack destroyed a multi-storey building. The blast sent debris falling onto cars on a busy road below, creating panic among residents. A Reuters reporter at the scene said many people rushed out of their apartments, fearing additional strikes.
Ali Tabtabai had been sanctioned by the United States in 2016. At the time, US officials identified him as a key figure in Hezbollah’s military structure and offered a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to him. The Israeli military said he oversaw many of Hezbollah’s units and played a major role in preparing them for conflict with Israel.
In a brief televised statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would not allow Hezbollah to rebuild its military strength. He also called on the Lebanese government to “fulfill its obligation to disarm Hezbollah.”
The Beirut strike has intensified concern about rising instability in Lebanon, with many residents fearing more attacks as both sides weigh their next steps.
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