Here’s a more concise version of the story with subheadings:
Israeli Airstrike Levels Beirut Apartment Building
An Israeli airstrike demolished a nine-story building in Beirut’s southern suburbs, leaving a pile of rubble. Civilians, including a lifeless man covered in dust and a body hurriedly taken on a quad bike, painted a grim picture of the destruction. Hezbollah members quickly confiscated phones to prevent photos from being spread.
Hezbollah’s Leadership Targeted
The airstrike struck a Hezbollah meeting of its elite Radwan force, killing 45 people, including women, children, and 16 militants, among them key leaders Ibrahim Aqil and Ahmad Wehbe. This followed a string of coordinated attacks that detonated Hezbollah’s communications devices, leaving over 80 dead.
Hezbollah’s Biggest Breach in 40 Years
The attacks revealed an unprecedented breach in Hezbollah’s ranks, exposing its communication systems and weakening its military structure. The group, once protected by secrecy, now faces internal panic as Israeli forces deliver precision strikes.
Lebanese Response and Hezbollah Retaliation
Lebanon’s Interior Minister condemned the Israeli breach and promised heightened security measures. Meanwhile, Hezbollah launched its largest retaliation since October, targeting Israeli military sites. It used new medium-range missiles, signaling its intent to regain deterrence.
Shifting Rules of Engagement
Hezbollah’s losses have led to changing rules of engagement with Israel. Previously, an Israeli strike in Beirut would trigger major retaliation, but recent Israeli attacks have gone unanswered until now. Despite these challenges, Hezbollah remains defiant, with supporters vowing loyalty to the cause.
Hezbollah’s Resolve Stays Strong
At a funeral for fallen fighters, Hezbollah’s supporters stood firm in their commitment to Nasrallah, insisting that while battles may be lost, the war continues. Nasrallah himself admitted the setbacks but emphasized that Hezbollah’s fight is far from over.
