The killing of Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri in a drone strike in Lebanon’s capital Beirut raised concerns that the conflict in Gaza could expand and engulf the Middle East. Arouri, who was 57, was the first high-ranking Hamas political leader to be assassinated since Israel’s brutal offensive against the group almost three months ago. Following the attack, both the Hezbollah group, an ally of Hamas, and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the killing. Arouri was considered to be a key figure in Hamas and was residing under the protection of Hezbollah in Beirut until his death. Hamas blamed Israel for his death and vowed to continue fighting. The assassination intensified fears that the conflict would escalate even further. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the attack in Gaza until Hamas is crushed, but it is unclear what the plan is for the Palestinian enclave should Israel succeed.
Israel-Hamas Conflict Spreading Across Middle East: Deputy Leader Killed in Beirut Drone Strike, Targets Hit in Syria, Raising Fears of Regional Conflict
