BEIRUT, Oct 11, V7N- A senior Hezbollah official, Wafiq Safa, survived an Israeli assassination attempt on Thursday night in Beirut, as reported by three security sources. The Israeli strikes, which targeted central Beirut, resulted in 22 deaths and over 100 injuries, making it the deadliest attack on the area since the conflict began. The strikes hit a densely populated residential area, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.

Israel has recently intensified its attacks on Hezbollah officials, killing several high-ranking members. Safa, who heads Hezbollah’s liaison and coordination unit, plays a key role in both security and political matters for the group. His assassination attempt signals a broader Israeli strategy to target Hezbollah's leadership, beyond just military commanders.

The escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah has also put U.N. peacekeepers in Lebanon in greater danger, with two Indonesian personnel injured by Israeli tank fire. The U.N. peacekeeping force (UNIFIL) has faced increasing threats amid the broader conflict, with their operations largely halted due to the intensifying hostilities. Both Israel and Hezbollah have continued military actions in the region, raising fears of a wider conflict.

The conflict, which began a year ago in support of the Gaza war, has since expanded, with thousands of casualties reported on both sides. The situation remains volatile as Israel continues its military campaign in Lebanon and Hezbollah retaliates with cross-border strikes.

END/WD/RH/