Israel claims Hezbollah leader Nasrallah killed in airstrike

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced Saturday the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, claiming he was killed during a major airstrike in Beirut. In a brief statement posted on social media, the IDF said, "Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorize the world," referencing the longtime Hezbollah figurehead who has led the group since 1992.

Hassan Nasrallah will no longer be able to terrorize the world.

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) September 28, 2024

Friday’s strike was one of the most intense Israeli air assaults on the Lebanese capital in years. According to Lebanon's Health Ministry, the attack left at least six people dead and 91 injured. While the Israeli military reported a precision strike targeting Hezbollah’s headquarters, Hezbollah's Al Manar television network denied Nasrallah’s death, with a spokesperson claiming the leader was unharmed.

The strike also resulted in the deaths of Mohammad Ali Ismail, commander of Hezbollah's missile launching unit, and his deputy, Hossein Ahmed Ismail, according to the IDF. Seven buildings collapsed during the assault.

Nasrallah, 64, has been the leader of the Iran-backed Shiite militant group since his predecessor, Abbas Mussawi, was assassinated by Israel in 1992. Under his leadership, Hezbollah has been involved in numerous conflicts with Israel, including the 2006 Lebanon War, which saw heavy casualties on both sides. Nasrallah has long been a key figure in the region’s militant resistance to Israel, including Hezbollah’s recent involvement in the 2023 conflict over Gaza.

Israeli officials have escalated their military operations, now expanding targets to include Nasrallah and Hezbollah leadership in southern Lebanon.