Hamas leader killed in Israeli strike on south Lebanon

The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) confirmed on Monday that its leader, Mohammed Ibrahim Shahin, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in the southern Lebanese city of Sidon while he was in his vehicle. This targeted assassination highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.

The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's military wing, mourned Shahin, stating that he played a "pioneering role and made special contributions" in the struggle against Israel, especially during the Gaza war. The Israeli military also stated that Shahin was an important Hamas figure in Lebanon and was involved in launching rockets at Israel. His death is a significant blow to Hamas's operations in the area.

The attack occurred as Israel faces hundreds of accusations of violating the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. According to the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces were to completely withdraw from Lebanon by Tuesday, but Israel insists on maintaining control of five "strategic" points in southern Lebanon. This continued presence is a major point of contention.

Lebanese President Michel Aoun expressed his concern on Monday that Israel might not fully withdraw from Lebanon, stating that he would use "diplomatic means" to push for Israeli withdrawal. "The Israeli enemy cannot be trusted, and we are worried that a complete withdrawal will not be achieved tomorrow," he said after meeting with the Editors Syndicate, adding, "Lebanon's response will be through a unified and comprehensive national position." He emphasized the need for a united front to address the issue.

Israel claims that it must retain these strongholds to ensure that Hezbollah, with whom it fought a two-month war last year, does not rearm near its border. Israel also claims that the Lebanese government has so far failed to disarm the organization. Aoun stated that the priority is Israeli withdrawal, and "the issue of Hezbollah's weapons should be resolved within the framework of a solution agreed upon by all Lebanese parties." Since Hezbollah launched a limited "support for Gaza front" in October 2023, Israeli attacks on Lebanon have caused more than 4,000 deaths, with most fatalities occurring during the Israeli escalation of attacks on Lebanon that began in late September and were suspended in November due to a truce. As of February 14, at least 57 Lebanese have been killed by Israel since the ceasefire came into effect, demonstrating the fragility of the current situation.