Hezbollah Reels as Leader’s Death Sparks Uncertainty and Outrage. Image: AP/Bilal Hussein
(The Post News)- Israel has confirmed the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in an airstrike on southern Beirut.
According to Israeli officials, Nasrallah was killed in a precision bombing raid on a Hezbollah command center. The Israeli military had been tracking the leader’s movements for weeks, awaiting the perfect moment to strike.
“We have achieved a major victory in the fight against terrorism,” declared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “Nasrallah’s demise marks a significant blow to Hezbollah’s capabilities and ideology.”
However, the US has denied prior knowledge of the operation, sparking controversy over potential collusion.
“We were not informed of the airstrike beforehand,” said a US State Department spokesperson. “We are closely monitoring the situation and urging calm.”
Contrary to US claims, sources confirm that American intelligence agencies were alerted to the impending strike.
“The US was kept in the loop,” revealed a senior Israeli military official, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We shared intelligence and coordinated efforts to ensure the operation’s success.”
Hezbollah has yet to confirm Nasrallah’s death, fueling speculation and uncertainty within the organization.
“We will not comment on rumors or speculation,” said Hezbollah spokesperson Mohammad Afif. “Our response will be severe and decisive, regardless of the outcome.”
The region remains on high alert as tensions escalate. Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun has condemned the airstrike, labeling it “a flagrant violation of sovereignty.”
“This attack will have far-reaching consequences,” warned Aoun. “We demand international action to hold Israel accountable.”
The international community is urging restraint, with many leaders calling for diplomacy and de-escalation.
“We are deeply concerned about the situation in Lebanon,” said EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell. “We urge all parties to avoid further escalation.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of regional chaos, emphasizing the need for calm.
“The region is on the brink of chaos,” Guterres said. “All parties must exercise restraint and engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve their differences peacefully.”
As Hezbollah navigates this critical juncture, analysts predict a period of internal power struggles and potential succession crises.
“Nasrallah’s death creates a power vacuum,” explained Dr. Fadi Essmael, a Middle East expert. “Hezbollah’s response will depend on who emerges as the new leader.”
Lebanon’s people remain caught in the crossfire, bracing for potential retaliation.
“We just want peace,” said Beirut resident Amal Moussa. “Enough of this senseless violence.”