The Israel Defense Forces announced that a precision strike in southern Lebanon killed Ali al-Hadi al-Haqani, a senior Hezbollah air defense operative accused of playing a central role in rebuilding the group’s military infrastructure. According to the IDF, al-Haqani was actively involved in efforts to restore and reconstitute Hezbollah assets that had previously been damaged or destroyed, actions Israel says directly violated the understandings governing the Israel–Lebanon border.

The strike was carried out by an IDF drone and targeted a vehicle in which al-Haqani was traveling. Thermal footage released by the military shows the moment of impact, with the vehicle exploding following the strike. Israeli officials described the operation as intelligence-driven and precise, aimed at neutralizing an ongoing threat rather than escalating broader hostilities.

In a separate strike in the same region, the IDF said it killed another Hezbollah operative who was also involved in efforts to rebuild and fortify the group’s military sites in southern Lebanon. Israeli defense officials emphasized that both individuals were engaged in activities that posed a direct security risk to Israel and undermined existing arrangements intended to prevent renewed conflict along the border.

Israel accused Hezbollah of systematically exploiting civilian areas and post-conflict lulls to restore weapons depots, command posts, and air defense capabilities. The IDF reiterated that it will continue to act against such efforts, stressing that rebuilding military infrastructure under the cover of ceasefire understandings will not be tolerated.

The strikes come amid sustained tensions along the Israel–Lebanon frontier, where Israeli forces have repeatedly warned that violations by Hezbollah would be met with decisive action. By targeting operatives responsible for rebuilding capabilities rather than waiting for future attacks, Israel signaled its intent to enforce red lines and deter further escalation while holding Hezbollah accountable for breaching established agreements.