Israel has reportedly attempted to target Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem at least twice in recent weeks, according to a Saudi media outlet citing an unnamed Israeli source. The report followed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that he had ordered intensified military action against the group. Footage circulating on social media showed residents fleeing Beirut’s Dahiya district amid fears of further escalation.

A senior American official indicated that Washington would support Israeli military action against Hezbollah, stating that the group had ignored repeated requests to halt attacks on Israel despite a ceasefire framework. The official suggested that Israel would not be expected to absorb continued strikes on its military personnel and civilians.

Iran warned that any Israeli strike on Beirut or its southern suburbs could jeopardize ongoing diplomatic efforts and potentially derail negotiations. Talks involving Tehran, Washington, and regional mediators are continuing in Doha as part of broader efforts to ease tensions across the region.