Officials said Israel attacked Beirut, targeting senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqeel. Akil was responsible for the US bombings that killed hundreds of people. including military and embassy personnel in 1983 are linked. It is unclear whether he was killed in a strike that leveled a residential building in a densely populated area.
Last year, the State Department offered a $7 million reward for inform ation leading to his identification, whereabouts, arrest or conviction. He was also involved in the American and German hostage takings in the 1980s and held senior positions in Hezbollah's military operations.
The strike is part of an ongoing crisis between Israel and Hezbollah, raising fears of a larger conflict. Last July, another Hezbollah leader, Fuad Shukra, was killed in a similar Israeli raid. Recently, both sides have repeatedly attacked them, raising fears of war.
Lebanese newspapers captured the damaged building and the chaotic scene as emergency workers responded. Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged attacks, with the Hezbollah leader vowing retaliation after a recent bombing killed at least 37 people.
Both countries remain on high alert as the situation remains tense.
My resources - www.nytimes.com
Photo story - The Israeli military in Beirut
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