Israel Declares Hezbollah Leader Naim Qassem Target Following Regional Attacks

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem a "target for elimination" following Hezbollah's rocket and drone attacks on Israel amid rising tensions after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Israel responded with airstrikes in Beirut, causing over 30 deaths. Qassem, a long-time Hezbollah deputy secretary-general and key figure since the group's founding in 1982, is seen as influential and vulnerable in the escalating regional conflict. Lebanese officials urged caution to avoid further escalation.