In a significant development, Hizbullah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has been killed, the Iran-backed group confirmed on Saturday. The announcement came after the Israeli military declared that it had eliminated Nasrallah in an air strike in Beirut the previous day.

Nasrallah’s death represents a major setback not only for Hizbullah but also for Iran. Having led Hizbullah for 32 years, Nasrallah was a prominent figure in the Tehran-backed “Axis of Resistance,” playing a crucial role in extending Iranian influence across the Middle East.

In a statement, Hizbullah vowed to continue its struggle against Israel, expressing support for Gaza and Palestine, and pledging to defend Lebanon and its people. The group did not provide details on how Nasrallah was killed.

Following the announcement of his death, Hizbullah’s Al-Manar TV began broadcasting Koran verses.

The Israeli military reported that Nasrallah was killed in a “targeted strike” on the group’s underground headquarters located beneath a residential building in Dahiyeh, a Hizbullah-controlled southern suburb of Beirut. The strike also claimed the lives of another top Hizbullah leader, Ali Karaki, and other commanders.

“The strike was conducted while Hizbullah’s senior chain of command were operating from the headquarters and advancing terrorist activities against the citizens of the state of Israel,” the Israeli military stated.

The air strike on Dahiyeh on Friday caused significant tremors in Beirut. A security source in Lebanon described the attack as a series of powerful blasts that left a crater at least 20 meters deep.

The initial strike was followed by additional air strikes on Dahiyeh and other parts of Lebanon on Saturday. The night sky was illuminated by huge explosions, and further strikes hit the area in the morning, sending smoke billowing over the city. Residents of Dahiyeh have fled, seeking refuge in downtown Beirut and other parts of the city.

“Yesterday’s strikes were unbelievable. We had fled before and then went back to our homes, but then the bombing got more and more intense, so we came here, waiting for Netanyahu to stop the bombing,” said Dalal Daher, speaking near Beirut’s Martyrs Square, where some of the displaced were camping out. She referred to Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.

Hizbullah continued its cross-border rocket fire, triggering sirens and forcing residents in Israel to seek shelter. Israeli missile defenses intercepted some of the rockets, and there were no immediate reports of injuries.

The escalation has heightened fears that the conflict could spiral out of control, potentially involving Iran, Hizbullah’s principal backer, as well as the United States.

History of Hizbullah

Hizbullah, or “Party of God,” is a Shia Islamist organization with significant influence in Lebanon. Founded in 1982 by Lebanese Shia clerics with Iranian support, its primary goal was to expel Israeli forces and establish an Islamic republic.

During the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), Hizbullah emerged as a prominent militant group, engaging in guerrilla warfare against Israeli forces and carrying out attacks, including the 1983 U.S. Marine barracks and embassy bombings.

After the civil war, Hizbullah became a major political force in Lebanon, participating in elections and providing social services, such as schools, hospitals, and welfare programs, to gain support among Lebanon’s Shia population.

The 2006 war with Israel bolstered Hizbullah’s reputation as a resistance force.

Hizbullah maintains its military capabilities, receiving support from Iran.

Today, it remains a powerful entity in Lebanon, with significant political influence and a strong military wing. The organization plays a key role in regional conflicts, particularly in Syria, supporting President Bashar al-Assad’s government.

Hizbullah’s origins date back to the Shia Islamic revival in Lebanon during the 1960s and 1970s. Its influence has grown steadily, making it a major player in Lebanese politics and regional conflicts.

With Iranian backing, Hizbullah continues to shape the region’s politics and military landscape.

The organization’s impact extends beyond Lebanon, contributing to regional tensions and conflicts.

Its enduring presence and influence have cemented Hizbullah’s status as a significant force in Middle Eastern politics and geopolitics.