The Lebanese prime minister, Salim Hoss, has accused Israel of carrying out the bomb attack which killed a senior commander of the militant Hezbollah movement, Ali Dib.

Mr Hoss described the attack, in the southern Lebanese port of Sidon, as a treacherous act and a tragic incident for Lebanon.

Hezbollah has also blamed Israel and vowed to take revenge.

Ali Dib who was also known as Khodr Salameh was killed instantly by what eyewitnesses said were two roadside bombs, which blew his car off the road.

No-one has admitted responsibility for the attack.

Hours after the bombing, Israeli jets and aircraft attacked suspected Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah says Ali Dib was one of several leaders in charge of military operations against Israel.

Two years ago, two of his close relatives were killed during an attack by an Israeli helicopter while travelling in Ali Dib's car..