The killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah took place in a densely populated area, surrounded by bustling markets, universities, schools, and luxury hotels, alongside charming restaurants with a foreign flair. Despite the chaos, Israel executed a precise strike, demolishing the building where Nasrallah was hiding.
This area, known as Haret Hreik, served as Nasrallah’s stronghold, surrounded by cafes, spas, and car cleaning centers. The wide streets belied the fact that Israel’s biggest enemy was living right in the heart of Beirut.
How Israel Killed Hassan Nasrallah ?
On September 27, Israel launched an airstrike that effectively ended Nasrallah’s life, escalating tensions rapidly between Iran-backed terrorist groups and Israel. Haret Hreik is located about eight kilometers from downtown Beirut, once part of a historic French colony that attracted many tourists thanks to its stunning beaches and remarkable architecture. From a distance, it seems like any other neighborhood in Beirut.
However, stepping into Haret Hreik reveals a different scene: armed men in camouflage uniforms, praising resistance fighters in Arabic, and posters of Hassan Nasrallah, often adorned with black headbands, plastered everywhere.
While it might be difficult for a tourist to locate a Hezbollah office, visiting the Square of Martyrs on Hadi Hassan Nasrallah Street is completely unrestricted. Many perceive Haret Hreik as a predominantly Shia area, located just 4.5 kilometers from Beirut Airport, where Israel has previously conducted airstrikes.
Founded in 1985, Hezbollah has often been described as a parallel government within Lebanon. Its fighters have historically wielded more advanced weaponry than the Lebanese police or military and are seen as a formidable force, even having representation in Lebanon’s parliament and extending influence to Syria.
In October 2023, Hezbollah launched low-powered rockets at northern Israel to support Palestinian militant efforts. However, Israel was quick to counteract, launching devastating attacks in Gaza that displaced thousands and effectively targeting Hamas militants hiding underground. Israeli forces deployed bunker-buster bombs, ensuring that those in tunnels met their end.
Initially, Israel held back from responding decisively to attacks from Lebanon, but on October 17, the situation changed dramatically. Israeli strikes left thousands of Hezbollah fighters injured and many dead. The unexpected explosion of fighters’ pagers, followed by blasts in walkie-talkies and satellite phones, resulted in chaos, leading to lethal airstrikes.
While Nasrallah’s death poses a significant blow to Hezbollah, they are known for their resilience and vengeance. Iran and its affiliated militant groups might now openly declare war on Israel, indicating a volatile escalation in the region.
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