Israel’s army says it launched a rare airstrike in a densely populated southern Beirut neighbourhood, leveling at least two residential buildings.
The IDF says the attack also claimed the life of Ibrahim Aqil, the head of Hezbollah’s operations team. Hezbollah has not confirmed this claim.
Lebanon’s health ministry is reporting a death toll of at least 12, with 66 people injured, and nine in critical condition.
This attack comes amid a flurry of bombardments between the two sides.
Israel and Hezbollah have traded fire regularly since Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel ignited the Israeli military’s offensive in Gaza.
Earlier this week, thousands of small blasts hit pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah members, killing dozens and wounding thousands more. Hezbollah is placing the blame on Israel.
Aqil had been wanted by the United States after being accused of having involvement in the 1983 U.S. Embassy strike that killed 63 people.
The U.S. says it was not involved in the strike that reportedly killed him.
READ MORE: Israeli military carries out ‘complex’ rescue operation to free hostage from Hamas captivity
