Israel confirms Hezbollah chief killed in Beirut strikes
- EP News Service
- Sep 29, 2024
An undated photo of Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei with Nasrallah (Right)
NEW DELHI: Israel confirmed the death of Hassan Nasrallah the long-time leader of Hezbollah, following a significant airstrike in Beirut on 27 September 2024. According to a reort in The Associated Press, the Israeli Air Force launched an airstrike on Hezbollah's headquarters in Beirut, reportedly targeting Nasrallah on 27 September. At least six people were killed and over 90 injured following the strike, with several missing.
A day latter in a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said, 'Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorise the world.' The IDF said that alongside Nasrallah, the commander of Hezbollah's so-called Southern Front, Ali Karaki, was also killed, along with other commanders, Times of Israel reported. In a post on X, IDF said, "Sirens sounded in the area of Jerusalem following a launch from Lebanon into Israeli territory."
Local media reports quoted Hezbollah saying on Saturday that its leader Nasrallah 'has joined his fellow martyrs'.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the killing of Nasrallah is crucial for restoring Israel's power and security in the region. The Israeli government views this operation as a strategic victory against Hezbollah, which has been a persistent threat to Israeli security.
In the wake of Nasrallah's death, Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel. The group has historically maintained a strong stance against Israeli actions, and this incident is likely to escalate tensions further. Hezbollah's leadership is expected to regroup and possibly adopt a more aggressive posture in response to the airstrikes.
Netanyahu has emphasised that the killing of Nasrallah was crucial in achieving the goal of returning Israeli hostages and warned that those who target Israel will face consequences. He said, ‘No place was beyond reach for Israel.’
Nasrallah had led Hezbollah for over three decades, and his death is seen as a devastating blow to the organization. Analysts suggest this could significantly alter the dynamics of power within Hezbollah and its operations in the region. The Iranian-backed group has not only been weakened militarily but also politically, as it grapples with the loss of its charismatic leader.
The killing of Hassan Nasrallah represents a significant turning point in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah and as the situation develops, the international community will be closely monitoring the responses from both sides, particularly regarding potential escalations in violence and shifts in regional alliances.
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