Israeli airstrike targets Hezbollah commander in Beirut suburbs despite active ceasefire
The strike on the predominantly Shia area of Beirut's southern suburbs caused extensive damage and a loud explosion, occurring while both sides continue to exchange accusations of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Israeli forces have launched an airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs, inflicting extensive damage and triggering a loud explosion. This attack represents the first strike on this predominantly Shia area since the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire took effect on 17 April 2026. The operation targeted Malek Balou, a commander within Hezbollah's Radwan Force, and occurred for the second time on Wednesday in this specific location.
The decision to proceed with the strike was confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated that he and Defence Minister Israel Katz personally instructed the army to carry out the operation. In a post on Telegram, Netanyahu characterised the Radwan Force as terrorists responsible for shooting at Israeli settlements and harming IDF soldiers. He further vowed that no terrorist has immunity, asserting that Israel's long hand will catch every enemy and murderer.
The timing of the attack has drawn attention given the active status of the truce brokered by Washington. While Israel has conducted regular strikes in Lebanon's south and east despite the agreement, this bombing of the Beirut suburbs is notable for its proximity to the capital and its timing relative to the ceasefire. Both sides have been trading accusations of violating the ceasefire agreement since it went into effect, creating a tense environment in the region.
Concurrently with the Beirut strike, an Israeli operation in Lebanon's eastern Bekaa Valley resulted in the deaths of four people. The Israeli military also reported striking Hezbollah targets in the south after warning residents of a dozen towns to evacuate. Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for several operations targeting Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, as well as attacks on northern Israel, since the conflict began.
The broader conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with total Israeli strikes in Lebanon accounting for over 2,700 deaths since March 2. This figure includes dozens of fatalities recorded since the ceasefire began. In terms of military losses, the Israeli army reports losing 17 soldiers and a civilian contractor during the fighting, underscoring the severity of the ongoing hostilities.
