The Israeli military claimed the attack, which struck the Ayrounieh area near Tripoli on July 8, targeted a “key figure” from the Palestinian group Hamas. The strike occurred more than 180 kilometers from the Israeli border, underlining Israel's willingness to strike deep inside Lebanese territory.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry confirmed the casualties. However, a Hamas source told Al Araby TV that no senior official was killed, and local media suggested the assassination attempt may have failed. Tripoli, a city with a significant Palestinian refugee population, houses camps where Hamas and other groups have a known presence.

The attack came during a two-day visit to Lebanon by U.S. envoy Thomas Barrack, who was discussing proposals to disarm Hezbollah. On the same day, Barrack stated he was “unbelievably satisfied” with Lebanon’s response and called for “a stand-down agreement.”

Despite this, Israeli strikes have continued across Lebanon. On Monday, another suspected Israeli air raid in Deir Kifa killed at least one person. Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem has reiterated that the group will not disarm while Israel occupies parts of southern Lebanon, as tensions over ceasefire terms and regional power balances remain unresolved.