What's happened
The assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. Following the strike, Israel intensified its military actions against Iran-backed groups, while Iran's response remains uncertain. This event could reshape regional dynamics and peace negotiations.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Peter Beaumont in The Guardian, the assassination of Nasrallah represents 'the most alarming escalation in almost a year of war' and indicates a significant shift in Israel's military strategy. The New York Times highlights that this strike was authorized by Prime Minister Netanyahu amidst a backdrop of international criticism, suggesting a bold move that could redefine regional power dynamics. The implications of this event are profound, as it not only affects Hezbollah but also challenges Iran's influence in the region.
How we got here
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified since October 2023, following Hamas's attack from Gaza. Israel's recent military actions, including targeted strikes, have shifted the previously understood rules of engagement, leading to the assassination of Nasrallah.
More on these topics
-
Hassan Nasrallah is the third and current Secretary General of the Lebanese political and paramilitary party Hezbollah since his predecessor, Abbas al-Musawi, was assassinated by the Israel Defense Forces in February 1992.
-
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
-
Hezbollah is a Shia Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon. Hezbollah's paramilitary wing is the Jihad Council, and its political wing is the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc party in the Lebanese parliament.
-
Sayyid Ali Hosseini Khamenei is a Twelver Shia Marja' and the second and current supreme leader of Iran, in office since 1989. He was previously the president of Iran from 1981 to 1989.
-
Dame Margaret Natalie Smith CH DBE is an English actress. She has had an extensive career on stage, film, and television, which began in the mid-1950s.
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.