Israel executed a strike in Sidon, Lebanon, killing Hamas commander Hassan Farhat and two family members. Lebanese Prime Minister condemned the act as a violation of sovereignty and ceasefire agreements. This event exemplifies the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with continued military operations despite the truce established in late November 2023.
On Friday, Israeli forces conducted a missile strike in Sidon, Lebanon, resulting in the death of Hassan Farhat, a commander of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. This strike also claimed the lives of Farhat’s adult son and daughter. The Israeli military justified the operation by stating that Farhat was responsible for orchestrating numerous attacks against Israeli targets following the war outbreak in Gaza, including a fatal rocket attack in February 2024.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, condemned the airstrike, describing it as a “flagrant attack on Lebanese sovereignty” and a violation of the ceasefire agreed upon on November 27. He emphasized that continuous Israeli attacks must be halted, especially those targeting residential areas and civilians.
The strike caused significant damage to a residential building, igniting panic in the densely populated area of Sidon. According to reports from Lebanese state media, the attack occurred at approximately 3:45 AM local time, leading to two explosions and extensive destruction.
Additionally, Israel conducted a prior strike in south Beirut, targeting a Hezbollah liaison officer, which resulted in four fatalities, including a woman. Lebanese leaders have denounced this act; however, Israel claims it was in retaliation against missile fire in the region, which Hezbollah has denied.
Despite the ceasefire established in late November, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah remain high, with hostilities hailed from the previous September continuing to prompt Israeli airstrikes. The terms of the ceasefire stipulated that Hezbollah would reposition its forces, while Israel would withdraw from certain territories, yet Israel has not adhered to these commitments, maintaining military presence in strategic areas.
In summary, the Israeli strike in Sidon resulted in the deaths of a Hamas commander and his family, which has been met with condemnation from Lebanese authorities. This incident illustrates the ongoing tensions between Israel and militant groups in Lebanon, particularly Hezbollah, within an already fragile ceasefire context. Despite agreements made, both sides have not fully abided by their commitments, continuing to escalate hostilities in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
