In a dramatic overnight operation, Israeli forces conducted a powerful strike in central Beirut targeting Mohammed (Abu Ali) Haider, Hezbollah's acting Chief of Staff. Early reports indicate the assassination attempt was unsuccessful.
The strike, which took place late Friday night, caused an eight-story building to collapse in downtown Beirut. According to Hezbollah's Al-Manar channel, at least seven people were killed and 23 others wounded in the attack. Security sources told Reuters that Israeli fighter jets launched at least four missiles during the operation.
Haider, considered the highest-ranking military figure remaining in Hezbollah, had assumed the role following a wave of assassinations over the past two months. He is effectively replacing Hezbollah's Chief of Staff Fouad Shukr and stands as the last surviving member of the original Jihad Council.