Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Beirut, Hezbollah confirmed Saturday.
Nasrallah, a key political and military figure in Lebanon and the Middle East, had been a target of Israel for decades.
His death marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.
The Israeli military said the airstrike targeted a meeting of Hezbollah leaders in the Dahiyeh suburb of Beirut.
The strike also killed other top Hezbollah commanders.
In response to Nasrallah’s death, gunfire erupted across Beirut as mourners expressed their grief.
Hezbollah has vowed to continue its resistance against Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Nasrallah’s killing was a critical step toward achieving Israel’s strategic goals.
He warned of potential retaliation but emphasized Israel’s readiness for further challenges.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has displaced tens of thousands of people on both sides of the border, with many fleeing their homes due to ongoing strikes.
The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for further confrontations.
