A targeted strike in Beirut has eliminated Haytham Ali Tabatabai, a key figure within Hezbollah’s command structure. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identified Tabatabai as the organization’s chief of staff, branding him a “mass murderer” directly responsible for attacks targeting both Israeli and American citizens.
The operation, meticulously planned and executed by the Israel Defense Forces, represents a significant escalation in Israel’s ongoing campaign to dismantle Hezbollah’s leadership. Intelligence suggests Tabatabai was instrumental in rebuilding the group’s military capabilities following recent setbacks, actively working to replenish depleted arsenals.
Netanyahu emphasized the gravity of Tabatabai’s role, revealing a $5 million bounty previously offered by the United States for information leading to his capture. He specifically linked Tabatabai to the Radwan Force, a unit allegedly preparing for a large-scale invasion of northern Israel with the intent to target civilian populations.
The prime minister directly addressed the government of Lebanon, demanding they fulfill existing commitments to disarm Hezbollah. He argued that such a move is essential not only for Israel’s security but also for fostering a stable and prosperous future for the Lebanese people, paving the way for peaceful relations between the two nations.
Hezbollah confirmed the loss with a somber announcement on its Telegram channels, posting a photograph of Tabatabai alongside dates marking his birth and death – 1968 to 2025. The image served as a stark acknowledgment of the blow dealt to the organization’s leadership.
The decision to authorize the strike was made following recommendations from both the defense minister and the IDF chief of staff, underscoring the unified resolve within the Israeli security establishment. Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning, stating that any future aggression towards Israel would be met with swift and decisive retaliation.
Katz affirmed a commitment to maintaining a policy of “maximum enforcement” against threats emanating from Lebanon and beyond, signaling a clear intention to prevent a return to the security landscape that existed prior to October 7th. The message conveyed a firm stance against allowing Hezbollah to re-establish its former strength and influence.
Netanyahu also took the opportunity to commend former President Donald Trump for his pledge to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, citing the group’s destabilizing influence throughout the Middle East and on a global scale. This acknowledgment highlighted a broader concern regarding regional security threats.
