"One of the possible Hezbollah responses to the assassination of Shukr is precise strikes against high-value targets within the country. Fuad Shukr was responsible for the organization's strategic systems and the missile precision project—so it's symbolic for the organization to use precision missiles against us, which Shukr was responsible for developing," says the head of the research department at the Alma Research Institute in a conversation with Maariv.
He added: "The fact that Hezbollah’s strategic systems are deployed in Beirut, within civilian areas, is just one example of Hezbollah’s modus operandi, which places most military sites within civilian populations. This makes it more difficult for Israel to strike at terrorist sites. The residents there serve as Hezbollah's human shield."
Barry emphasizes the precision of the missiles from Lebanon, stating: "They are very accurate and could even target a specific car in Tel Aviv with such precision. All of Israel's air defence layers, particularly the Arrow system, are designed to deal with this threat, but the defence is not airtight."
The report reveals that at least 32 missile launch sites belonging to Hezbollah have been identified in the heart of civilian areas in Beirut. According to the report, Hezbollah holds approximately 600 Fateh 110 missiles, with a range of up to 300 kilometres, while advanced models known as "Dhu al-Faqar" can reach up to 700 kilometres.
The report also notes that there are many additional launch sites in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, areas controlled by Hezbollah. These sites, which include command and control infrastructure, bunkers, missile production and storage facilities, have been found near schools, clinics, hospitals, golf clubs, soccer fields, and even close to the Iranian embassy and the Lebanese Ministry of Defence.
"Almost all of the sites are located in southern Beirut, an area under Hezbollah control, and are situated in residential neighbourhoods, within private homes, medical centres, churches, industrial zones, public offices, fast food restaurants, and adjacent open areas, according to the human shield tactic," the report states. It also notes that "based on our insights into Hezbollah's operational methods, these launch sites are prepared for immediate operational use."