Israel has launched an airstrike on Beirut for the first time since a ceasefire with Hezbollah came into effect, escalating tensions and raising concerns about the stability of the fragile truce.

The strike targeted the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital, a known Hezbollah stronghold, with Israeli officials saying the operation was aimed at a commander of the group’s elite Radwan force. Reports suggest the individual may have been killed, though there has been no immediate official confirmation.

The attack marks a significant development, as it is the first such strike in Beirut since the ceasefire agreed in April following weeks of intense fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

The truce was intended to create space for negotiations, but repeated violations and ongoing hostilities in southern Lebanon have already strained the agreement.

In response, Hezbollah reportedly launched rockets and drones toward Israeli positions in southern Lebanon, signaling the risk of renewed escalation.

The incident comes amid wider regional tensions involving the US and Iran, further complicating diplomatic efforts. Analysts warn that continued violations could collapse the ceasefire entirely, potentially reigniting broader conflict in the Middle East.