Beirut – The Israeli Broadcasting Authority has reported the killing of senior Hezbollah commander Haytham Ali Tabatabai in an Israeli strike, describing the incident as a significant setback for Houthi militias in Yemen.

Tabatabai was regarded as a model figure for the Houthis, playing a central role in training their fighters in Yemen and establishing a protection system for the militia’s leader, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi. His influence was critical in strengthening the group’s military and security capabilities.

Analysts say his assassination represents a strategic loss for the Houthis, depriving them of one of the key architects behind their organizational and protective structures. 

The incident is expected to cause confusion within the militia ranks and weaken their ability to safeguard top leadership.