Israel Executes Strike on Hamas Commander in Sidon, Lebanon
Israel executed a military strike in Sidon, Lebanon, killing Hamas commander Hassan Farhat and his son and daughter. The act has been condemned by Lebanese officials as a violation of sovereignty and ceasefire. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah, despite efforts to maintain peace.
On Friday, Israel reported the killing of a Hamas commander, Hassan Farhat, during a military strike in Sidon, Lebanon, which also resulted in the deaths of his adult son and daughter. This action has drawn condemnation from Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who described it as a “flagrant attack on Lebanese sovereignty” and a violation of the ceasefire established on November 27.
According to Israeli military statements, Farhat was responsible for orchestrating attacks against Israeli forces starting from the hostilities that erupted after the Gaza war in October 2023. Notably, he was linked to a rocket attack on Safed that resulted in the death of an Israeli soldier on February 14, 2024.
The strike, which occurred at approximately 3:45 AM local time, led to significant destruction in the densely populated neighborhood of Sidon. An eyewitness confirmed that the fourth-floor apartment remained ablaze following the attack, which caused significant damage to surrounding buildings and prompted panic among residents.
Lebanese state media reported at least three fatalities, citing an attack by a hostile drone that produced two explosions and extensive residential damage. Emergency responders recovered the bodies of three individuals at the site.
Prime Minister Salam called for international pressure on Israel to cease its continual military operations targeting civilian areas. Earlier in the week, Israel had also conducted a strike in south Beirut, claiming it was in retaliation for unidentified rocket fire, leading to four fatalities including a woman.
Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah escalated into outright conflict in September, and despite the ceasefire, Israeli air strikes have resumed targeting Hezbollah. Under the terms of the truce, Hezbollah was to reposition its forces northward and dismantle military operations in southern Lebanon, while Israel was expected to withdraw its forces from significant positions it currently occupies.
The recent Israeli strike on a Hamas commander in Lebanon has sparked significant political unrest, with the Lebanese government condemning it as a breach of sovereignty and a violation of the ceasefire. The ongoing military actions highlight the fragile state of peace in the region, especially following the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. As both sides continue to engage in military confrontations despite a truce, the humanitarian consequences for civilians remain a grave concern.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
