Israel launched heavy airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting Hezbollah’s leadership, including Hashim Safieddine, the likely successor to slain leader Hassan Nasrallah.

The strikes follow a series of Israeli attacks aimed at dismantling Hezbollah, including intelligence operations and a widespread air campaign.

It remains unclear if Safieddine was killed. In a broader escalation, Israel also struck near the Lebanese-Syrian border, where refugees have fled, and continues operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Iran and its allies have retaliated, intensifying regional conflict, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

Israel’s offensive seeks to weaken Hezbollah’s presence near its borders.

Written by B.C. Begley