Image Credit: The Economic Times
Following an Israeli airstrike on Beirut yesterday (July 30, 2024), Hezbollah has released a preliminary statement regarding the status of its commander, Fuad Shukr, also known as Hajj Mohsen. The group confirmed that Shukr was in the targeted building at the time of the attack, but his current condition remains undetermined.
The Israeli assault caused extensive damage to multiple floors of the building. Hezbollah’s statement highlighted that the severe destruction has impeded the efforts of civil defense teams, who are working slowly to clear the rubble. The challenging conditions within the building have complicated rescue operations, with progress being hindered by the state of the damaged structure.
The statement underscored that Hezbollah is still awaiting further updates from the ongoing recovery efforts. Both the fate of Shukr and the status of other individuals potentially trapped in the building are still unknown.
Israel has claimed responsibility for the strike and asserted that Shukr was killed in the attack. However, Hezbollah’s sources contradict this claim, suggesting that Shukr might have survived. The differing reports have intensified speculation and increased tensions in the region as the search for Shukr and other potential survivors continues.
As the situation evolves, Hezbollah’s statement underscores ongoing concerns and the critical need for accurate information amid the uncertainty surrounding the commander’s fate and the repercussions of the Israeli military action.