The Israeli military confirmed on Wednesday that they had carried out an airstrike in southern Lebanon, resulting in the death of a senior Hamas operative. This action comes in response to the recent attacks by Hamas on Israel on Oct. 7.
The man killed, Hadi Ali Mustafa, was described by the Israeli military as a key figure in Hamas’s international terrorist activities. They stated that he had been involved in attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets worldwide. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
Hamas’s military wing confirmed Mustafa’s death in a statement but did not provide any details about his role within the organization.
The Israeli airstrike, which targeted a car near Tyre, Lebanon, also resulted in the death of a passing motorcyclist, according to Lebanese state media. Videos from the scene showed a body being carried on a stretcher and a burning vehicle amidst chaotic scenes.
Israel has been carrying out targeted killings in Lebanon, focusing on individuals affiliated with Hamas and Hezbollah, both of which are supported by Iran. In January, an explosion in Beirut killed Saleh al-Arouri, a senior Hamas official, with Hamas blaming Israel for the incident.
Hamas maintains a presence in Lebanon, primarily in Palestinian refugee camps. Since the start of the Gaza conflict on Oct. 7, Hamas, along with Hezbollah and other militant groups, have launched rocket attacks into northern Israel from Lebanese territory.
