Israeli airstrike targets Hezbollah leader and depot near Beirut airport: Business Standard

In a targeted strike, Israel has killed a top Hezbollah leader and destroyed a weapons depot near Beirut airport. The attack, which took place in the early hours of the morning, has escalated tensions between the two countries and raised fears of further violence in the region.

The Hezbollah leader, identified as Hassan al-Laqis, was a key figure in the militant group and played a crucial role in its military operations. Israeli officials have long accused Hezbollah of stockpiling weapons and using them to launch attacks against Israel.

The strike, which was carried out by Israeli fighter jets, targeted a weapons depot located near Beirut airport. The explosion was so powerful that it could be heard miles away, shaking nearby buildings and causing panic among residents.

Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel for the attack, raising concerns of a potential escalation of violence in the region. The Lebanese government has condemned the strike, calling it a violation of its sovereignty and urging for calm and restraint.

The Israeli government has defended the strike, stating that it was a necessary measure to prevent Hezbollah from acquiring more weapons and carrying out attacks against Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel will not hesitate to take further action to protect its citizens.

The killing of al-Laqis and the destruction of the weapons depot have once again brought the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah to the forefront. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a de-escalation of tensions and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.