Tensions Escalate in Middle East: Hezbollah and Israel Face Off

Amid escalating tensions, potential Hezbollah leader Hashem Safieddine is missing after an Israeli strike. Israel targets Hezbollah strongholds to counter attacks on northern Israel. The conflict, intensified with Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon and Palestine-backed Hamas caught in crossfire, raises stakes across the region attracting global attention.

Potential Hezbollah leader Hashem Safieddine is unaccounted for following an Israeli airstrike reportedly targeting him in Beirut's southern suburbs, Lebanese security sources confirmed. Israel's intensive campaign targets Hezbollah's leadership and infrastructure, destabilizing the region.

The attacks, which began across Lebanon's southern suburb of Dahiyeh, deter rescue missions and have led to significant Hezbollah casualties since last year. Recent escalations included Israel's first strike in Tripoli, amplifying the conflict beyond its earlier confines.

Israel is responding to Hezbollah's bombardment of northern Israeli territories since October of last year and aims to secure safe returns of displaced Israeli citizens. However, the toll on Lebanese civilians and the regional political landscape remains critical, drawing international scrutiny.

(With inputs from agencies.)