Hamas’ Saleh Al Arouri killed in Israel’s strike on Beirut

Hamas confirmed that its political bureau deputy head Saleh Al Arouri was killed due to Israel strike in Beirut, Lebanon.

Arouri is among the founders Hamas’ military wing, Izz ad-Din al Qassam Brigades that is based in Beirut, reported CNN.

Arouri’s death was confirmed by Hamas media outlet, Al-Aqsa TV.

In an immediate response, Lebanon Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the explosion that killed Arouri.

Mikati said it is a new Israeli crime to get Lebanon involved in the ongoing conflict.

“We call on the concerned countries to put pressure on Israel to stop its targeting. We also warn against the Israeli political level resorting to exporting its failures in Gaza to the southern (Lebanese) border,” the prime minister wrote on X.

Israel meanwhile skirted around questions regarding Arouri.

“We are focused on fighting against Hamas,” Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari said, responding to the question during his daily press briefing.

“The IDF is in a very high state of readiness in all arenas, in defense and offense. We are highly prepared for any scenario,” Hagari said.