Israeli military forces launched a targeted operation Thursday in Lebanon’s capital, striking at a commander with ties to Iran’s Quds Force, marking a notable escalation in Israel’s military approach in the region.
Earlier this week, Iranian officials had warned that any Israeli military action in Lebanon’s capital would negatively impact ongoing diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran.
Israeli sources identified the target as Ali al-Husni, described as the missile commander within the Imam Hussein Division, a unit connected to Iran’s Quds Force. The military action came as Israeli forces expanded their operations in Lebanon past the Yellow Line.
Military officials have not confirmed whether al-Husni was eliminated during the operation.
The attack represents a notable change in Israeli strategy, coming after earlier signals that Israel would refrain from conducting military operations in Beirut.
According to Walla, a high-ranking Israeli military official announced Wednesday that Beirut would no longer be considered a restricted zone for Israeli operations. The official explained that should tactical opportunities present themselves in the Lebanese capital, forces would move against Hezbollah positions.
A security source revealed that Israel’s political leadership had “removed the restraints” and provided the military with extensive operational authority against Hezbollah due to what the source characterized as serious breaches of the ceasefire agreement by the terrorist organization that led to multiple Israeli military casualties.
During discussions earlier this week, Israel’s political-security cabinet examined ways to prevent actions that might be seen as disrupting US diplomatic efforts regarding a potential agreement to resolve the Iranian conflict, according to officials with knowledge of the meetings.
Those present at the meeting initially agreed to avoid striking Beirut, the officials reported. Political leaders also turned down a recommendation from Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir to destroy structures in Beirut’s Dahieh district.
Al Jazeera reported that an Iranian source stated Tehran had cautioned the United States that an Israeli attack on Beirut would significantly damage current peace discussions aimed at resolving the conflict.
