IDF Clears Hezbollah's Vast Underground Complex in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has completed the clearance of a large underground complex belonging to Hezbollah on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. The operation, which had been under a media blackout, aimed to neutralize Hezbollah's terror infrastructure in the area. During the operation, Israeli forces eliminated all Hezbollah operatives within the complex, with no survivors reported.

An Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) official revealed to The New York Times that between 70 and 100 Hezbollah members, including Iranian advisors from the Quds Force, have been trapped in the tunnels since June. The official stated that Hezbollah repeatedly attempted to deliver water and food to the militants via drones, but Israeli forces eliminated any operative who emerged to receive the supplies. He also noted that the complex had three exit routes, two of which are under Israeli control, while the third is at risk of immediate collapse. The priority for Iran and Hezbollah is to extract weapons from the site, but the chances of success are considered slim.

Following the announcement of the clearance, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated that Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed. He stated that the IDF will complete the neutralization of the tunnels and implement tactical measures to secure the ridge and prevent the enemy's re-establishment. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated the forces, declaring that the Ali Taher ridge no longer poses a threat to Israel.

Israeli security forces are preparing for the possibility of escalation as Hezbollah and Iran attempt to extract weapons from the area. Hezbollah, concerned by the Israeli operation, has reportedly sought assistance from Iran, aiming to revive the Shiite axis that has been weakened in recent years. Iran has threatened intervention if Israel continues its operations, amidst ongoing tensions with the United States and economic pressure on the regime. While a limited escalation in the north is possible, the likelihood is not considered high. The IDF maintains a high state of readiness and is coordinating closely with the U.S. Following the destruction of the underground complex, the IDF plans to redeploy its defensive array in the region, with the final deployment determined by the post-operation situation assessment.