What’s happening

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, in a recent interview with Channel 14, confirmed Israel’s involvement in the assassination of Wissam al-Tawil, the commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force. Even though Israel has not officially claimed responsibility, Jerusalem’s role in the attack has been acknowledged.

Why it matters

Al-Tawil was a senior figure within Hezbollah and the most prominent member of the group to be killed by Israeli action. His targeted assassination escalates tensions and may influence regional dynamics considerably.

The background

Wissam al-Tawil, also known as Jawad, played a central role in operations in southern Lebanon and was recently appointed as commander of Radwan Force. He orchestrated attacks against Israel, including the ambush in 2000 and the abduction of soldiers that sparked the Second Lebanon War. His death stems from Israel’s broader strategy to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure and deter future aggression.

Official statements

Katz cited the mission’s goal as restoration of security to Israel’s northern and southern regions. The stance emphasizes active measures to eliminate threats rather than reactive defense. On the contrary, IDF Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Hagari eschews comments on these operations, underlining action over words to secure safety on Northern borders.

The assassination details

The attack transpired in the town of Salim, roughly ten kilometers from the Israel-Lebanon border, where an Israeli drone targeted Al-Tawil’s vehicle, also killing another unidentified individual.

The response

Following the assassination, rocket and missile exchanges have occurred across the Lebanese border. With the retaliations growing stronger since late December, the Israeli Defense Force faces a strategic hit to its air defense capabilities in the North, raising alarms over regional stability.

This story was first published on jpost.com.