“There is no immunity” for Israel’s adversaries, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said after an Israeli strike targeted a Hezbollah commander in the southern suburbs of Beirut.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, speaking May 7, justified the military operation and warned Israel would continue to act against organizations it sees as security threats despite a ceasefire announced last month between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.
The bombing was the first Israeli attack on the southern suburbs of Beirut since the ceasefire took effect and had increased fears of further escalation along the Israel-Lebanon front. Israeli military officials said the operation was especially aimed at a Hezbollah commander suspected of orchestrating operations against Israeli interests.
Lebanese security authorities reported explosives in portions of southern Beirut, which is largely seen as a Hezbollah stronghold. Early reports spoke of injuries and damage to neighboring structures, but officials were still trying to gauge the entire effect of the strike.
Netanyahu said Israel will not allow extremist groups to regroup or strengthen their operations under the cover of ceasefire deals. Israeli security forces “will continue to act wherever necessary” to defend the country, he said.
Lebanese officials and regional observers have condemned the strike, cautioning that the operation could damage already weak ceasefire efforts and drive the two sides closer to renewed fighting.
Hezbollah has not immediately provided information about the commander who was purportedly the target of the strike but the group condemned the bombing and accused Israel of breaking the ceasefire deal.
International mediators and regional powers have urged prudence, warning that further military escalation might threaten regional stability. The ceasefire, reached after weeks of cross border bloodshed, has lowered tensions between Israeli forces and Hezbollah members operating near the Lebanese border.
The latest strike illustrates the continued volatility of the region with both sides still on high alert while diplomatic efforts continue to keep the lid on violence, analysts say. See also Washington targets Iraq oil network over alleged Iran support
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