Israel Strikes Beirut Suburb of Dahieh, Targeting Hezbollah Commander, Breaching Ceasefire
The Israeli airstrike hit Dahieh, a Hezbollah stronghold, causing extensive damage and large flames, as evidenced by online imagery. Local media reports indicate the attack occurred around 20:00 local time, coinciding with a reported meeting of Radwan Force members.
Despite a ceasefire announced by former US President Donald Trump on 16 April, both Israel and Hezbollah have continued cross-border attacks, each accusing the other of violations. Israeli forces have primarily focused strikes on southern Lebanon, ostensibly targeting Hezbollah infrastructure and personnel, a pattern consistent with their stated aim of creating a "Hezbollah-free security zone" along the border.
Lebanon's health ministry reports over 120 fatalities in the past week alone from these attacks, including women and children. Rights organisations have flagged Israeli actions in southern Lebanon, including the destruction of entire villages, as potential war crimes, drawing parallels to tactics employed in Gaza.
Hezbollah, which did not participate in the ceasefire negotiations, has reciprocated with rocket and drone attacks on Israeli troops in Lebanon and northern Israel. Last week, an Israeli defence ministry contractor was killed by a drone in southern Lebanon.
Dahieh, once a densely populated area, remains largely deserted, with residents reportedly fearful of returning due to persistent Israeli strike threats. Netanyahu stated that the targeted commander was responsible for attacks against Israeli communities and soldiers, adding, "No terrorist is immune - Israel's long arm will reach every enemy and murderer."
US-supported talks between Israel and Lebanon persist at the ambassadorial level, though Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declined a meeting with Netanyahu. The Lebanese health ministry records over 2,700 deaths in Lebanon since 2 March. Israel acknowledges 16 soldiers and one civilian killed in southern Lebanon, alongside two civilians in northern Israel.
