IDF Eliminates Hezbollah Military Chief Ali Tabatabai in Strike Deep Inside Beirut

The IDF carried out a precision strike in the center of Beirut on Sunday, killing Hezbollah’s military commander and second-in-command, Ali Tabatabai, in one of the most significant targeted operations since the start of the war. The attack was conducted in the Dahiyeh district and was referred to as “Operation Black Friday.” According to Lebanese Health Ministry officials, five people were killed and 21 were wounded.

The operation targeted a hidden apartment used by Tabatabai, who was considered one of Hezbollah’s most dangerous and central figures. The incident marked the first Israeli strike in the Dahiyeh district, Hezbollah’s main stronghold in Beirut, in seven months.

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office said: “A short while ago, in the heart of Beirut, the IDF attacked the Hezbollah Chief-of-Staff, who had been leading the terrorist organization's buildup and rearmament. Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered the attack upon the recommendation of the Defense Minister and the IDF Chief-of-Staff. Israel is determined to act to achieve its objectives everywhere and at all times.”

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Netanyahu dismissed claims that Israel sought outside approval for its military actions. In remarks to the Security Cabinet, he said, “All the talk that ‘we must receive approvals for this’ from one source or another is simply an absolute lie. We operate independently of anyone. Immediate actions to thwart attacks are taken by the IDF automatically. As for the responses, that goes through the Defense Minister and eventually reaches me, and we decide independently of any factor, and that is how it should be. Israel is responsible for its own security.” U.S. sources later said the United States was notified as the strike was taking place.

Defense Minister Israel Katz praised the strike: “We will continue to act with force to prevent any threat against the residents of the north and the State of Israel. Anyone who raises a hand against Israel — his hand will be cut off.” He added that “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and I are determined to continue the policy of maximum enforcement in Lebanon and everywhere. We will not allow a return to the reality before October 7.”

Tabatabai, 57, previously commanded Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force and held a senior role in Unit 3800, which oversaw the organization’s external operations in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq. His operational experience and strategic influence made him one of Hezbollah’s most significant military leaders. The United States sanctioned him in 2016 and offered a reward of up to $5 million for information on his activities.