Israel claimed Ibrahim Aqil, chief of Hezbollah’s Radwan Force, is dead. Aqil was targeted with other leaders in the southern suburb of Beirut the IDF claimed. But in a quick reaction, Hezbollah said Akil is ‘fine’ & in ‘good health’. In 11 months, most of Hezbollah’s top command has been killed in strikes. The Radwan Force spearheads ground & offensive operations. The force has been at the forefront of clashes with Israel since Oct 8.
Israel has demanded the removal of Radwan Force from the border in the north: report. ‘Radwan Force is known for its expertise in executing cross-border infiltrations’. The unit’s operations along the northern Israeli border have led to mass migrations.
The special unit was established after the 2006 Lebanon War. The unit is named after Imad Mughniyeh, a key Hezbollah commander. Mughniyeh, who went by the alias ‘Hajj Radwan’, was assassinated in 2008.
The unit’s creation was part of Hezbollah’s efforts to enhance military prowess. The unit is made of battle-hardened fighters, some have fought outside Lebanon. The Radwan fighters are highly trained in urban warfare & ambushes. Their experience in urban warfare was gained through battles in Lebanon & Syria.
‘What sets the unit apart from other Hezbollah units is its versatility in combat’. The unit’s internal structure is believed to be divided into specialized teams.