IDF Completes Operation to Clear Hezbollah's Ali Taher Ridge in Lebanon

The Israeli military announced the completion of an operation to clear Hezbollah's underground infrastructure on the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon. The operation, conducted by special forces from the Yahalom unit, involved isolating Hezbollah operatives within the complex, identifying escape routes, and preventing external assistance. Israeli forces engaged in firefights with militants attempting to flee, eliminating dozens. The IDF stated it achieved operational control above and below ground, clearing the area of terrorists, some of whom were killed and others escaped.

The decision to publicize the operation, initially planned to be kept secret to protect soldiers, was reportedly influenced by a Reuters report quoting Iran threatening a "forceful response" to Israeli activity in the region. Security officials noted that no Iranian advisors or Quds Force members were present during the operation. Hezbollah attempted to resupply its trapped fighters with food and water via drones, but Israel reportedly intercepted and neutralized these attempts.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that the Ali Taher tunnels served as a command center for attacks on Israeli forces and the Galilee region, and as a key defensive position for Hezbollah. He emphasized that the IDF would neutralize the tunnels and prevent any re-establishment of enemy presence, asserting that Israel would not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed and the threat to northern Israel is removed.

According to the IDF, the underground facilities included command posts, weapons storage, generator rooms, living quarters, showers, and a kitchen, which had been developed over two decades with Iranian funding and planning. Hezbollah had utilized the ridge extensively during Israeli operations "Arrows of the North" and "Lion's Roar." The IDF reiterated its commitment to preventing Hezbollah from advancing terror plans and vowed to respond forcefully to any hostile actions, while also affirming adherence to the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon.