Thousands of Hezbollah supporters gathered in Beirut on Monday, November 24, 2025, to mourn senior commander Haytham Tabtabai, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike the previous day.
Mass Funeral Procession in Southern Beirut
Mourners carried coffins of Hezbollah fighters through the southern suburbs of the Lebanese capital during an emotional funeral procession. The coffins, draped in Hezbollah flags, included that of Haytham Tabtabai, the group's chief of staff, marking a significant loss for the organization.
Details of the Deadly Airstrike
The targeted strike occurred on Sunday, with Israeli forces confirming they had eliminated a high-value Hezbollah operative. The attack represents one of the most significant escalations in recent cross-border hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which have seen increased tensions throughout 2025.
Hezbollah officials have vowed to respond to what they describe as an assassination operation. The group's leadership has declared three days of mourning for the fallen commander and his comrades.
Regional Implications and Security Concerns
Security analysts warn that Tabtabai's killing could trigger significant retaliatory measures from Hezbollah, potentially escalating the ongoing low-intensity conflict into a broader confrontation. The situation has drawn international concern, with United Nations peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon increasing patrols along the border region.
The funeral procession proceeded without incident, though Lebanese security forces maintained a heavy presence throughout the area. Hezbollah supporters chanted anti-Israeli slogans and pledged support for the group's resistance efforts during the emotionally charged event.
