Ibrahim Aqil, a key figure within Hezbollah, played a prominent role in the organization’s military operations and intelligence efforts. A senior commander, Aqil was a member of Hezbollah's Jihad Council and assumed its presidency following the assassination of Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike that hit Beirut back in July. His influence within the group was significant, particularly in enhancing Hezbollah's military capabilities and directing complex operations.

Aqil’s military career dates back to the 1980s when he was an active member of the Islamic Jihad Organization, a faction closely linked to Hezbollah. During this period, Aqil was involved in some of the most devastating attacks in Lebanon, including the bombing of the US Embassy in Beirut in April 1983, which killed 63 people. Later that year, he played a role in the bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut, an attack that resulted in the deaths of 241 American military personnel.

Aqil’s involvement extended beyond bombings; he was also responsible for orchestrating hostage-taking operations, targeting both American and German nationals during the 1980s. These actions made him a key figure in Hezbollah’s anti-Western and anti-Israeli activities during that time.

Recognizing his pivotal role in these operations, the United States designated Ibrahim Aqil as a specially designated global terrorist on September 10, 2019, under Executive Order 13224. His involvement in high-profile attacks and hostage situations led the US government to place a $7 million bounty on his head, reflecting the significance of his activities in both regional and international terrorism.

Despite efforts to capture or neutralize him, Aqil remained elusive. His operational knowledge and experience, particularly in organizing field operations against Israel and coordinating Hezbollah's actions in broader regional conflicts, cemented his status as one of the organization’s most effective military leaders.