Israeli Drone Attack Kills Hamas Deputy Leader and 5 Others in Southern Beirut

On January 2, 2024, a deadly Israeli drone attack targeted the Hamas office in Dahieh, the stronghold of Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Beirut. According to Lebanon’s official news agency, six individuals, including deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri, were killed in the attack.

The Attack

The Israeli drone strike took place in Dahieh, a neighborhood known for its close ties to Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group backed by Iran. The target of the attack was the Hamas office, where Saleh al-Arouri, a high-ranking Hamas official, was believed to be present. The attack resulted in the deaths of al-Arouri and five others.

The Victims

Saleh al-Arouri, the deputy leader of Hamas, was a significant figure within the Palestinian militant organization. Known for his involvement in planning and coordinating attacks against Israel, al-Arouri’s death is a major blow to Hamas. The identities of the other five individuals killed in the attack have not been released yet.

Israel’s Motivation

Israel has long viewed both Hamas and Hezbollah as threats to its national security. Hamas, based in the Gaza Strip, has been responsible for numerous attacks against Israel, while Hezbollah, operating in Lebanon, has engaged in conflicts with Israel in the past. Israel’s drone strike on the Hamas office in Dahieh is believed to be a preemptive measure to prevent potential attacks against Israeli targets.

Regional Implications

The drone attack in Dahieh has raised tensions in an already volatile region. Both Hamas and Hezbollah have close ties with Iran, a country that has been at odds with Israel for decades. The attack further exacerbates the already strained relationship between Israel and Iran, which could potentially escalate into a larger conflict.

International Response

The international community has expressed concern over the escalation of violence in the region. The United Nations has called for restraint and urged all parties to de-escalate the situation. Regional powers such as the United States and Russia have also voiced their concerns and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Conclusion

The Israeli drone attack on the Hamas office in Dahieh has resulted in the death of deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri and five others. This targeted strike has further heightened tensions in the region, particularly between Israel and Iran. The international community has called for calm and a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need to avoid further escalation.

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#BREAKING Six people including deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri have been killed in the Israeli drone attack against the Hamas office in Dahieh, the stronghold of Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Beirut, Lebanon's official news agency reported.

— Alex Kennedy (@therealmindman) January 2, 2024

Source

@therealmindman said #BREAKING Six people including deputy Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri have been killed in the Israeli drone attack against the Hamas office in Dahieh, the stronghold of Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Beirut, Lebanon's official news agency reported.