Hamas leader Mohammed Ibrahim Shaheen was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Sidon, southern Lebanon. Israel maintains control of strategic positions in Lebanon while Lebanese officials express concern over electoral compliance. The broader conflict continues, with significant casualties reported in Lebanon due to ongoing violence and military actions since late September.
Hamas leader Mohammed Ibrahim Shaheen was killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting his vehicle in Sidon, southern Lebanon, as confirmed by the Palestinian group. In tributes, Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Brigades, acknowledged his significant contributions to their operations, particularly during the conflict in Gaza. The Israeli military described Shaheen as a prominent Hamas figure in Lebanon who had engaged in rocket attacks directed at Israel.
This assassination occurs amidst allegations that Israel has committed numerous violations of the ceasefire in both Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. Although Israel is expected to pull back its forces from Lebanon according to the ceasefire agreement, it maintains control over five key positions in the region, citing security concerns about Hezbollah’s activities.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed his apprehension regarding Israel’s potential failure to fully withdraw from Lebanon and emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure their retreat. He noted, “The Israeli enemy cannot be trusted, and we are afraid that the complete withdrawal will not be achieved tomorrow,” highlighting the importance of a unified national stance.
Israel argues it must hold onto these strategic locations to prevent Hezbollah, with which it fought a lengthy conflict last year, from rearming near its borders. Aoun reiterated that while the withdrawal of Israeli forces is a priority, addressing Hezbollah’s arms would need collective agreement among the Lebanese factions.
Since the escalation of hostilities, Israeli operations have led to the deaths of over 4,000 individuals in Lebanon. The majority of these casualties resulted from increased attacks beginning in late September, which were paused by a truce implemented in November. As of February 14, approximately 57 individuals were reported killed by Israel under the ceasefire conditions.
The Israeli airstrike that killed Hamas leader Mohammed Ibrahim Shaheen marks a significant event in the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, showcasing the tensions between Israel and Hamas along with the broader geopolitical implications. The potential for further military action persists amid ceasefire violations and uncertainties surrounding Israel’s complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon. President Aoun’s calls for diplomatic resolution highlight the fraught nature of current regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
