IDF Clears Hezbollah Underground Infrastructure from Ali Taher Ridge

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced Thursday evening that it has completed the clearing of two Hezbollah underground structures on the Ali Taher Ridge, neutralizing the threat they posed. The operation, carried out by the 36th Division, involved intense ground and air assaults, including ambushes, direct fire, grenade attacks, drone usage, and artillery strikes. The IDF stated that the area was cleared of terrorists, with some killed and others fleeing.

These underground facilities were reportedly built by Hezbollah's "Badr" unit, with joint funding and planning from Iran. They served as command centers and living quarters for terrorists, enabling them to manage rocket fire, combat IDF forces, and carry out attacks against Israeli civilians for decades. The structures contained command posts, weapons storage, generator rooms, living quarters, showers, and kitchens, allowing for prolonged underground stays and operations.

The IDF's advance on the ridge followed earlier operations, "Northern Arrows" and "Lion's Roar," during which Hezbollah continuously utilized these tunnels. The recent operation aimed to neutralize the capability to launch terror attacks from these tunnels against Israeli civilians and soldiers.

This development comes hours after reports surfaced that Iran had warned the United States about a potential large-scale Israeli operation on the Ali Taher Ridge, threatening a significant Iranian response. This message was reportedly conveyed through Oman in mid-August. According to sources cited in the Reuters report, over a dozen Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps members, including senior officers, were present at the ridge alongside Hezbollah operatives. Another source suggested that Israel had postponed an assault on the ridge due to American pressure.

Just yesterday, Hezbollah launched two explosive drones towards IDF forces in the area, one of which was intercepted without casualties. In response, the IDF targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in the Nabatieh region. The IDF stated that the recent operations have neutralized the ability to launch terror attacks from these specific tunnels, though the process of dismantling the remaining infrastructure is ongoing. Following completion, the IDF will reassess its defensive posture in the area.