Israeli strike on Hezbollah missile commander in Beirut signals expanded air operations

Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian 

The targeting of Ali al-Husseini, head of the missile division within Hezbollah’s Imam Hussein Division, in Beirut’s southern suburbs, appears to mark the beginning of targeted air force operations that received a green light from Washington to be carried out across Lebanon.

A military official said Israel’s next step requires a strategic and political plan that would grant Tel Aviv freedom of action for its air force in Lebanon, particularly amid heavy U.S. pressure. Some details of this pressure were revealed by Defense Minister Israel Katz, who also faced strong criticism in the Knesset from leaders of northern towns.

Amid continued fatalities and injuries among soldiers and intensified drone incursions, Israeli security agencies are reportedly examining ways to reduce the threat posed by drones, including risks to residents in the north, after at least 15 drones were launched toward northern towns early Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the Israeli Ground Forces, Nadav Lotan, is heading to the United States to pursue procurement deals related to countering the drone threat.