IDF Eliminates Senior Hezbollah Operative in Southern Lebanon Strike

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on Friday the elimination of Ahmad Naeem Maatouk, a senior operative of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force, in a targeted strike in Sir El Gharbiyeh, southern Lebanon. Maatouk, serving as an operations officer, was accused by the IDF of orchestrating multiple attacks against Israel during the 14-month conflict that concluded with a ceasefire on November 27, 2024. The IDF stated that Maatouk's actions breached existing agreements between Israel and Lebanon.

In a related development, the IDF disclosed that its forces conducted overnight operations in southern Syria, uncovering weapons caches and detaining individuals suspected of planning attacks against Israeli troops. These operations are part of Israel's ongoing efforts to secure its borders and prevent hostile activities in the region.

The Lebanese government is expected to present a plan to persuade Hezbollah to disarm, according to U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, speaking in Tel Aviv, emphasized the necessity of disarming Hezbollah, suggesting that if peaceful means fail, military action should be considered.

Hezbollah initiated near-daily attacks on Israeli border towns on October 8, 2023, following an incursion by Hamas into southern Israel. These attacks led to the displacement of approximately 60,000 residents in northern Israel. In response, Israel intensified operations in Lebanon, culminating in a two-month period of open warfare that ended with the November truce.