Israel eliminates key Hezbollah figure in Beirut strike Ahead of Ceasefire deal / VIDEO

Hezbollah's Operations Officer Jafar Ali Samaha was eliminated in an IAF strike in Beirut on the evening of November 26, prior to the ceasefire in Lebanon coming into effect.

Samaha was reportedly responsible for coordinating the launch of drones and cruise missiles targeting Israel, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media.

According to a statement Hezbollah’s 127th aviation unit was established with Iranian support, which included the supply of drones and cruise missiles.

Since the commencement of Operation Northern Arrows, the Israeli Air Force has targeted approximately 200 sites linked to the unit. These strikes have destroyed over 150 drone launch positions, around 20 weapons depots containing drones and cruise missiles, 30 command centres, and four facilities used for manufacturing and assembling drones and missiles.

Israeli military officials estimate that these operations have resulted in Hezbollah losing approximately 70% of its drone arsenal and 30% of its cruise missiles.

This follows the targeted killing of Muhammad Hussein Sarour, known as "Abu Salah," the commander of Hezbollah’s aviation division, in an Israeli Air Force strike in Beirut on September 26, 2024.

In a separate incident last month, Hajer al-Abd Bahaji, the head of Hezbollah's "Northern Litani" sector, was also eliminated.

To recall, a ceasefire between Israel and the Lebanese group Hezbollah came into effect early on November 27, following an agreement brokered with the help of US President Joe Biden. The truce aims to end nearly 14 months of cross-border conflict that has claimed thousands of lives.

The ceasefire, which began at 4am (02:00 GMT), has raised hopes for a lasting peace despite uncertainty over its durability. Tens of thousands of displaced civilians have started returning to southern Lebanon, defying Israeli military warnings to wait for its withdrawal.

Announcing the agreement on November 26 night, President Biden described it as a step towards "a permanent cessation of hostilities," allowing civilians on both sides to return safely and rebuild their lives.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri urged all displaced citizens, including those abroad, to come home.

By Aghakazim Guliyev