IDF Clears Hezbollah Tunnels Near Israeli Border, Iran Warns of Retaliation

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the successful clearing of two underground routes leading to a strategic Hezbollah stronghold on the Ali al-Tahir ridge, located approximately six kilometers from the Israeli border. The operation, which commenced in June and is ongoing, has resulted in dozens of Hezbollah operatives and Iranian advisors being surrounded within the complex.

According to sources within Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps speaking to The New York Times, between 70 and 100 Hezbollah fighters and Iranian Quds Force advisors are trapped in the tunnels. Israeli forces thwarted attempts to resupply them with food and water via drones, reportedly killing militants who tried to collect the provisions.

Iran has issued a warning to the United States, conveyed through Oman, stating that an Israeli takeover of the ridge would cross a red line and trigger a strong response. This development threatens to escalate tensions with the Lebanese government and jeopardizes diplomatic efforts following the collapse of an Islamabad understanding between the U.S. and Iran, which had aimed to cease military actions on all fronts, including Lebanon.

In response to the threats, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that an Iranian attack would free Israel from all constraints, enabling it to strike any infrastructure, including energy facilities, and return Iran to the "stone age and darkness." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu added that he is convinced Israel can eliminate the Iranian threat permanently and overthrow the Iranian regime, which he described as currently fighting for its life.