IDF Operations Branch Details Covert Strikes, Including Nasrallah Assassination

The Israeli military's Operations Branch has been responsible for high-profile assassinations of leaders from Hamas, Hezbollah, and even figures in Iran and Yemen. Colonel D., head of the branch, emphasized that surveillance of key terrorist figures is ongoing, stating, "We will reach any one of them, in Israel or abroad." The process involves receiving real-time intelligence, developing rapid responses, and mobilizing forces for operations.

One significant operation detailed was the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Nearly two years prior to the article's publication date, the Israeli Air Force dropped 83 tons of bombs on a Hezbollah stronghold in Dahieh, killing Nasrallah, who was in a bunker. Colonel D. described the strike, codenamed "New Order," as the most significant operation against Nasrallah, noting that it was launched when conditions were met and the target, along with other senior Hezbollah officials and an Iranian general, were believed to be in a protected location. The branch highlighted Nasrallah's alignment with Hamas following the October 7th attacks as a factor in his demise.

The Operations Branch coordinates complex missions, integrating intelligence gathering with operational execution and liaising with other security agencies like the Shin Bet and Mossad. Colonel D. described the planning of such operations as "multi-arena events" requiring close collaboration between various military and intelligence units. These operations, whether special missions or targeted assassinations, often begin weeks or months in advance and involve extensive coordination.

The branch also highlighted the simultaneous detonation of thousands of Hezbollah pagers and communication devices across Lebanon and Syria in September 2024, an event described as a "central shaper" with significant psychological impact. This operation, preceding Nasrallah's assassination, severely degraded Hezbollah's capabilities and was seen as a crucial step towards enabling the return of residents to northern Israel. The assassination of senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil shortly before Nasrallah's death was also cited as a major achievement.

Beyond targeted killings, the branch is constantly vigilant for emerging threats and plans for complex scenarios, including hostage rescue missions, which are described as particularly time-consuming and challenging. Colonel D. asserted that Israel's operational reach extends far beyond what is publicly known, with forces acting to neutralize threats wherever they are located. The branch's work involves meticulous planning, creative problem-solving, and real-time control of events, often requiring rapid decision-making within minutes of receiving intelligence.