In an assassination that risks triggering all-out war in a region already on the brink, Israeli fighter jets dropped approximately 10 bunker-busting bombs on residential buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs, an area colloquially known as Dahiyeh, on Friday.

Footage seen by Middle East Eye showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the blast site.

Later, Hezbollah said in a statement: "His eminence, the master of resistance, the righteous servant, has passed away to be with his lord who is pleased with him as a great martyr.

“The leadership of Hezbollah pledges… to continue its jihad in confronting the enemy [Israel], supporting Gaza and Palestine and defending Lebanon and its steadfast and honourable people.”