Israel conducted a strike in Sidon, Lebanon, killing Hamas commander Hassan Farhat and his two children. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the assault, labeling it a breach of sovereignty. The operation was reportedly in response to his involvement in attacks on Israeli targets. The situation underscores the fragile ceasefire and ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.
On Friday, Israel conducted a strike in Sidon, Lebanon, resulting in the death of Hamas commander Hassan Farhat, along with his adult children. This operation was denounced by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam as a severe violation of Lebanese sovereignty and a breach of the ceasefire established on November 27.
According to the Israeli military, the targeted operation was a response to Farhat’s alleged involvement in several attacks on Israeli forces and civilians since the Gaza conflict escalated in October 2023, including a rocket attack that killed an Israeli soldier in February 2024.
Witnesses reported that the strike occurred at approximately 3:45 AM, impacting a residential building and igniting a significant fire that caused extensive damage to neighboring structures. Emergency services responded promptly to recover the deceased.
The Lebanese Prime Minister urged the international community to apply maximum pressure on Israel to prevent further assaults that disproportionately affect civilian areas. Earlier this week, Israeli airstrikes in southern Beirut also resulted in casualties, including women.
Relations between Israel and Hezbollah, which deteriorated leading to an armed conflict last September, remain strained. A ceasefire has been in place, yet violations from both sides continue. Hezbollah is mandated to reposition its forces north of the Litani River and dismantle military setups in southern Lebanon, while Israel has yet to comply with its obligation to withdraw from strategic positions along the UN-demarcated border.
The recent Israeli strike in Sidon highlights ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestinian militant groups, particularly Hamas. Lebanese leaders have decried these actions as violations of sovereignty and ceasefire agreements, prompting calls for international intervention. The situation remains precarious as both parties navigate complex and ongoing hostilities in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
