ALBAWABA- Israel has bombarded one of the largest residential neighborhoods in central Beirut, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
Israeli Channel 12 reported that Fouad Shukr, the Chief of Staff of Hezbollah and head of its operations room, was the target of an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's southern suburb last Sunday. The decision to strike was made following Prime Minister Netanyahu's return from the United States.
According to Maariv, Israeli officials stated that they have no interest in further escalation and that the response is now up to Hezbollah.
They indicated that if Hezbollah does not retaliate, Israel will consider the matter resolved, following a missile attack on Majdal Shams in the occupied Golan Heights, which resulted in the death of 12 Druze and many injuries. Israel accused Hezbollah of the attack, although Hezbollah denied involvement.
The Israeli Broadcasting Authority mentioned that, from Israel's perspective, the situation hinges on Hezbollah's reaction. Security sources told Reuters that while Fouad Shukr was targeted, there is no confirmation of his death. The strike resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to others.
This attack, targeting the southern suburb of Beirut known as a Hezbollah stronghold, is the first of its kind in this area and raises the specter of an all-out war between Israel and Lebanon.
In a related statement, the US Secretary of Defense emphasized that the United States will defend Israel if it is attacked by Hezbollah.
