Israel Claims Control of Lebanon Heights, Vows No Withdrawal Until Hezbollah Disarmed

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced that the Israeli military has completed its operation to secure the Ali Al-Taher heights in southern Lebanon, establishing control over what he termed the "security zone." Gallant stated that this operation marks the culmination of efforts to solidify Israeli control in the area.

The operation was reportedly initiated after intelligence indicated the presence of Hezbollah command and control tunnels within the Ali Al-Taher heights. According to Israeli accounts, these tunnels were utilized by Hezbollah to manage attacks against Israeli forces and the Galilee region. Gallant described the tunnels as a "command center for attacks" on Israeli forces and northern Israel, and the last defensive stronghold for the Nabatieh area, which he deemed strategically significant for Hezbollah.

Gallant detailed that the advance on the heights followed a series of military actions, including maneuvers towards an "anti-tank line" and the capture of the Beaufort Castle, also known as "Al-Shaqif." He emphasized the strategic importance of the heights for the Israeli military, enabling it to control the area and protect communities in eastern Galilee.

The defense minister acknowledged the difficult field conditions during the operation, both during the offensive and in providing protection for forces operating in the region. He also revealed that Israel imposed strict media blackout on the operation's details to ensure the safety of participating troops, praising the determination of the Israeli military leadership and the bravery of the soldiers.

Gallant confirmed that the tunnels have been "cleared of militants" and that the Israeli military will continue to neutralize tunnels and implement tactical measures to maintain its presence in the heights and prevent Hezbollah's redeployment. Regarding the broader Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon, Gallant asserted that Israel will not withdraw from the security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon and threats to the residents of Galilee are eliminated, calling the control of the Ali Al-Taher heights a significant step towards this objective.