The murder of a leader of the Islamist Hamas in Lebanon has led to a further escalation of the conflict with Israel. The Hezbollah militia announced retaliatory measures on Tuesday evening. “This crime will never go unanswered or punished,” she said.
As reported, the deputy head of Hamas’s political bureau was killed in an explosion in Beirut (see video above). A total of seven people were killed, including two leaders of Hamas’ armed wing. Saleh al-Aruri, who was killed, had long been considered a possible attack target. The Israeli army considers him the mastermind behind the attacks on the West Bank.
Attack against Hamas, not Hezbollah
So far, the Israeli side has not taken any responsibility for his killing, as the government’s security adviser said. “Whoever did this, it must be clear that this was not an attack on the Lebanese state. “It wasn’t even an attack on Hezbollah,” said Mark Regev. The alleged attack was solely against Hamas.
The Hezbollah militia, in turn, is certain that the Israeli army was behind the explosion. The fighters are “at the highest level of readiness,” the report said. The militia said it carried out its first attack on Israeli forces near the border on Tuesday evening. It is said that there have been deaths and injuries. According to Israeli media reports, longer-range rocket fire is now expected. The Shiite Hezbollah is considered significantly more powerful than Hamas.
Macron: “Avoid escalating behavior”
French President Emmanuel Macron, meanwhile, called on the Israeli government to “avoid any escalating behavior, especially in Lebanon.” Macron had spoken by telephone with Benny Gantz, minister in the Israeli war cabinet. The French government will continue to convey these messages of restraint to all actors involved in the area, it said.
The Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports that progress towards a hostage agreement is no longer possible for the time being. According to diplomats, the talks are currently aimed at preventing an escalation between Israel and Lebanon. The ‘murder’ changed the situation.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
