In a significant escalation of tensions, an Israeli air strike targeted a high-ranking Hezbollah leader in Beirut on Sunday, marking the first such attack without prior warning since the ceasefire agreement last year. The strike occurred in the densely populated Haret Hreik area of Dahiyeh, a southern suburb of the Lebanese capital. According to the Lebanese health ministry, the attack resulted in one fatality and 21 injuries, though the identities of the victims remain undisclosed. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the operation aimed at what he described as ‘Hezbollah’s chief of staff.’ Israeli media identified the target as Haytham Ali Tabatabai, the group’s de facto military leader and second-in-command after Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem. Hezbollah has yet to issue an official statement, but a source from the group acknowledged that a senior figure was targeted, without providing further details. The strike comes amid ongoing violations of the November 2024 ceasefire, which ended months of intense conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Since the ceasefire, Israel has conducted numerous air strikes in Lebanese territory, resulting in at least 331 deaths and around 1,000 injuries, according to Lebanese authorities. While most strikes have targeted southern Lebanon, this attack in Dahiyeh is notable for its lack of prior warning. Israeli media and officials have recently hinted at a potential new offensive against Lebanon, citing concerns over Hezbollah’s efforts to rebuild its capabilities. Conflicting reports emerged regarding whether the United States was informed of the strike, with some suggesting Washington was aware of Israel’s plans but not the specifics of the operation.