Hezbollah Leader Warns of Retaliation, New Conflict with Israel After Commander's Killing

Hezbollah Vows Response to Commander's Assassination

Beirut, Lebanon – Hezbollah's Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, issued a stark warning on Friday, November 28, 2025, asserting the group's right to retaliate against Israel for the killing of its senior military commander, Haytham Ali Tabtabai. In a televised address, Qassem described the strike that killed Tabtabai as 'a blatant aggression and a heinous crime' and indicated that a new conflict with Israel remains a distinct possibility.

The warning follows an Israeli airstrike on Sunday, November 23, 2025, in Beirut's southern suburbs, specifically the Haret Hreik area, which resulted in the death of Tabtabai, also known as 'Abu Ali,' along with four other Hezbollah militants. Lebanese health officials reported that the attack killed at least five people and wounded 28 others.

Context of the Strike and Ceasefire Violations

Haytham Ali Tabtabai held the position of Hezbollah's chief of staff and was considered the most senior commander killed by Israel since a November 2024 ceasefire agreement. This truce was intended to end over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. According to Qassem, Tabtabai was in a meeting with four aides 'to prepare for future actions' when the strike occurred.

Israel has intensified its attacks on Lebanon, stating its resolve not to allow Hezbollah to rearm. Hezbollah, however, insists it has respected the 2024 ceasefire and has called for an end to persistent Israeli strikes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office affirmed that Israel would continue to act to prevent Hezbollah from re-establishing its threat.

Hezbollah's Stance and Regional Implications

During his televised address, Qassem explicitly stated, 'Do you expect a war later? It's possible sometime. Yes, this possibility is there, and the possibility of no war is also there.' He emphasized that Hezbollah would 'determine the timing' of any response. Qassem also urged Lebanon to prepare a national plan to confront Israel, relying on 'its army and its people.'

The Hezbollah leader also expressed hope that Pope Leo's upcoming visit to Lebanon would 'play a role in bringing about peace and ending the aggression.' Meanwhile, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee countered Hezbollah's claims, stating that the Lebanese army's efforts to seize Hezbollah weapons were 'inadequate' and that 'Hezbollah continues to manipulate them and work covertly to maintain its arsenal.'

Escalating Tensions and International Pressure

The assassination of Tabtabai marks a significant escalation in the already tense relationship between Israel and Hezbollah, raising fears of a broader conflict in the region. The incident comes as Lebanon faces increasing pressure from both Israel and the United States to disarm Hezbollah, a demand the group has consistently rejected. The fragile ceasefire, agreed upon in November 2024, has been repeatedly tested by ongoing strikes and counter-claims of violations from both sides.