IDF Completes Operation on Lebanon's Ali Taher Ridge, Neutralizing Hezbollah Infrastructure

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Thursday evening, September 3rd, the completion of its operation to clear Hezbollah's underground infrastructure on the Ali Taher ridge in Lebanon, stating that work is underway to neutralize it. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently confirmed that Ali Taher no longer poses a threat to Israel, reporting that the IDF eliminated numerous terrorists and seized computers containing intelligence.

The announcement followed Iran's threat of retaliation. Strikes in the area continued until Thursday evening. In recent weeks, units from the 36th Division had been conducting an operation to clear two underground complexes in the region. The IDF stated that its forces established operational control over both the surface and underground sections of the territory, clearing it of militants. The army reported that some militants were killed, while others managed to escape.

"The operation to neutralize the underground infrastructure, cleared of militants, is ongoing. After its completion, the IDF will transition to a new defense scheme," the military said. According to the IDF, the underground complexes contained command posts, weapons storage, generators, living quarters, showers, and a kitchen, which the army claims enabled militants to manage combat operations and stay in the area for extended periods.

The IDF described the infrastructure as "strategic," built over two decades with funding and design from Iran. Operational control was achieved through ambushes, shaft shelling, grenade and drone use, and other methods. The infrastructure was built by militants from the "Badr" unit, with Iranian funding and joint planning, and was used for decades to manage firing systems, conduct combat against IDF forces, and carry out terrorist operations against Israeli civilians.

IDF forces advanced into the area after Hezbollah suffered significant damage and weakened capabilities during operations "Northern Shield" and "Lion's Roar." The IDF reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, warning of a strong response to any Hezbollah actions against its forces. Brigadier General Yiftach Norkin, commander of the Ga'ash Division, stated that the cleared complexes were used by Hezbollah to command recent campaigns and strike northern Israeli communities and IDF forces.

Earlier, Iran had warned the United States that it would "respond with force" to an Israeli attack on Ali Taher ridge, where Iranian soldiers were reportedly surrounded along with Hezbollah fighters. Reuters reported that this message was conveyed to the U.S. last month, highlighting Iran's involvement and readiness to retaliate against Israeli strikes. While the specifics of what constitutes a "full-scale Israeli attack" remain unclear, Israel continues its operations in the area. Israeli security officials maintain that no Iranian soldiers are present in the region.