Hezbollah has confirmed the death of its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, following an airstrike by Israel on the group's headquarters in Beirut. The Israeli military, which referred to the operation as "Operation New Order," claimed responsibility for the attack that reportedly killed the 64-year-old Nasrallah on Friday.

In their announcement, Hezbollah stated that Nasrallah “has joined his fellow martyrs,” and their Al-Manar TV channel began broadcasting Quranic verses in tribute to him. Sources revealed to The New York Times that Hezbollah officials identified Nasrallah's body along with that of another high-ranking commander, Ali Karaki.

This loss is a severe setback for Hezbollah, which has been engaged in conflict with Israel since Hamas's assault on October 7, 2023. Following the confirmation of Nasrallah's death, Hezbollah vowed to continue its fight against Israel "in support of Gaza and Palestine, and in defense of Lebanon and its steadfast and honorable people."

Nasrallah had been at the helm of Hezbollah for over three decades, playing a crucial role in transforming the group into a significant political and militant force in the region. His death raises hopes within Israel of weakening Hezbollah's influence and reducing its operational capabilities near its borders.

The airstrike reportedly took place while Hezbollah leaders were meeting in their Dahiyeh headquarters, resulting in six fatalities and over 90 injuries, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) executed a "precise airstrike," dropping more than 80 bombs in quick succession to target Nasrallah.

In response to the airstrikes, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, called on Muslims to support Hezbollah and the people of Lebanon in their confrontation with Israel. Khamenei stated that the region's fate would be shaped by the resistance forces, with Hezbollah leading the charge.