Israel claims Hassan Nasrallah, top Hezbollah leaders killed in Beirut airstrikes

Israel launched a massive attack on Beirut, Lebanon's capital, targeting Hezbollah's headquarters with the primary objective of eliminating Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the Iranian-backed organisation's leader.

The five-hour airstrike series continued into Saturday morning, with additional strikes hitting southern Beirut suburbs and other Lebanese areas.

Reuters reporters witnessed over 20 airstrikes before dawn and after sunrise on Saturday, with smoke billowing from Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs. 

"The sounds of explosions were deafening," said one Beirut resident.

Israel claimed that Nasrallah and other senior leaders were killed in the attacks. 

However, the development has not been confirmed by any source or Hezbollah.

When asked about Nasrallah's death, an Israeli soldier stated, "I think it's too early to say, but Hezbollah often hides such news, so nothing can be said."

On the other hand, Reuters citing Hezbollah sources revealed they've lost contact with Nasrallah since Friday's attacks and haven't been able to reach him. 

Earlier, sources close to Hezbollah assured Reuters that Nasrallah was alive. Iran's Tasnim news agency also confirmed Nasrallah's safety.

A senior Israeli official disclosed that top Hezbollah commanders were targeted, resulting in the deaths of Mohammad Ali Ismail, Hezbollah's missile unit commander, and his deputy Hussain Ahmad Ismail.

The Israeli military reported that approximately 10 missiles were fired into Israel from the Lebanese border, with some intercepted. 

The airstrikes have forced tens of thousands to flee, gathering in downtown Beirut's squares, parks, and sidewalks.