Wafiq Safa, Top Hezbollah Leader, in Critical Condition After Israeli Airstrike in Beirut

In a high-profile Israeli Air Force (IAF) strike on Thursday, senior Hezbollah leader Wafiq Safa was critically injured in Beirut, according to sources quoted by Sky News Arabic. Safa, who serves as the head of Hezbollah's Liaison and Coordination Unit, was reportedly the target of two Israeli airstrikes in Dahieh, a Hezbollah stronghold in the Lebanese capital.

Safa’s role within Hezbollah is significant, overseeing the group’s connections with Lebanese security agencies and other factions. The Israeli airstrikes were reportedly an effort to neutralize Safa, who remains in critical condition following the attack. Sources within Lebanon confirmed Safa’s injuries, with multiple media outlets, including Reuters and CNN Arabic, reporting similar accounts from security officials.

In addition to Safa’s critical condition, the airstrike caused widespread destruction. A residential building in the vicinity was leveled in the attack, with witnesses describing the entire structure collapsing as the airstrike hit. "The entire building fell," one witness told CNN. Lebanese authorities reported that the strike left at least 22 people dead and over 100 wounded.

The Dahieh district has long been a key hub for Hezbollah, and it is frequently targeted in military operations due to the group’s presence and influence in the area. The latest airstrike comes amid rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with the latter intensifying its operations along Israel’s northern border.

While Hezbollah has yet to issue an official statement regarding Safa's condition, the incident marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed group. Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah aim to disrupt its military capabilities and target key figures within the organization.

The strike highlights the escalating confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly as the group continues to pose a security threat to Israel from Lebanon. As Israeli forces remain on high alert, and Hezbollah’s operations in southern Lebanon persist, further military engagements are likely.

In this complex and volatile region, Israel remains committed to defending its borders and neutralizing threats to its security. The ongoing efforts to dismantle Hezbollah’s military infrastructure demonstrate Israel's resolve in ensuring the safety of its citizens.

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