On September 20, 2024, an Israeli airstrike in Beirut targeted and killed Ibrahim Aqil, a senior commander of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force, alongside at least 14 other commanders. Aqil, who had a long history of anti-Israel operations and was recently appointed as Hezbollah's Chief of Staff, was also a key figure in coordinating attacks against U.S. interests in Lebanon. His death is seen as a significant blow to Hezbollah's military leadership, prompting threats of retaliation from the organization and escalating tensions with Israel. The U.S. had previously sanctioned Aqil for his involvement in the 1983 bombings that killed over 300 Americans, raising questions about U.S. intelligence failures prior to his elimination. The operation reflects the Israeli military's improving intelligence capabilities, particularly in light of earlier security lapses. Following Aqil's death, Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks on Israeli targets, indicating a potential escalation in hostilities.