Who was Ibrahim Mohammad Kobeissi, Top Hezbollah Commander Killed in Israeli Strike?

Beirut: A senior Hezbollah commander responsible for the group's missile and rocket unit, was killed in an Israeli airstrike on southern Beirut, as announced by Hezbollah on Wednesday. The strike, part of Israel's recent air attack series in Lebanon, reportedly killed six others and injured 15. The Israeli military claimed Kobeissi was a significant target, with the group confirming his death.

Who was Kobeissi and his Role in Hezbollah

Ibrahim Mohammad Kobeissi held a significant position within Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran. He was in charge of the group’s rocket and missile unit, playing a crucial role in Hezbollah's strategic military operations. His expertise made him a key figure in Hezbollah’s ability to target Israeli positions with rockets and other advanced weaponry. Kobeissi was reportedly responsible for several rocket launches towards Israel and was involved in a 2000 attack where three Israeli soldiers were kidnapped and killed.

The Israeli Strike

Kobeissi was killed in an Israeli airstrike on Tuesday, as part of a wider two-day bombing campaign that has claimed over 560 lives in southern Lebanon. The strike targeted Hezbollah positions in the southern suburbs of Beirut, where Kobeissi was reportedly located. The bombing also injured 15 people and killed six others, as confirmed by Lebanese authorities.

Hezbollah’s Reaction

Hezbollah announced Kobeissi’s death on Wednesday, describing him as a “martyr on the road to Jerusalem.” The group praised his contributions to their missile and rocket operations and his close connections with senior Hezbollah military leaders. His loss is seen as a major blow to Hezbollah’s military capabilities, particularly in its ongoing conflict with Israel.

Targeting of Hezbollah Leadership 

In the same operation, Israel reportedly targeted other high-ranking Hezbollah officials. While Kobeissi was confirmed dead, Hezbollah's third-in-command, Ali Karaqke, was reportedly targeted in an earlier strike. However, the group later clarified that Karaqke had moved to safety and was unharmed. Israel’s strategy appears to focus on eliminating key Hezbollah commanders to weaken the group's leadership structure.

Escalation of Conflict

Kobeissi’s death has further escalated the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with Hezbollah launching a series of retaliatory rocket attacks on Israel. The strikes targeted an explosives factory and forced Israeli citizens into bomb shelters. The situation remains tense, with both sides exchanging heavy fire, raising concerns about an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah.