IDF Prepares to Destroy Hezbollah Tunnels in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is preparing to destroy two underground tunnel routes beneath the Ali Tahar ridge in southern Lebanon in the coming days, according to reports from Kan News. Military officials told Kan News that no Hezbollah fighters remain alive in the area. Following the destruction of the tunnels, the IDF will gradually withdraw from the Israeli security zone in southern Lebanon, as previously reported.

Overnight, two explosive drones were launched toward IDF forces operating on the Ali Tahar ridge; no soldiers were injured. In response, the Israeli Air Force conducted extensive strikes in southern Lebanon, including an attack on a building in Nabatieh al-Fawqa. This building, formerly a hospital, was evacuated about six weeks ago and reportedly served Hezbollah for military activities. One person was killed and others were injured in the strike, prompting the US monitoring mechanism to seek clarification from Israel. Israeli officials provided evidence to the US demonstrating the building's use by Hezbollah.

The withdrawal plan, which includes the destruction of the tunnels, will be presented this week for approval by the commander of the Northern Command, followed by political approval. The plan outlines that after destroying the tunnels, IDF forces will withdraw from the "yellow line" to the "gray line," a zone 2 to 4 kilometers from the Israeli border, where approximately 20 permanent outposts will be established. Operational control in the evacuated areas will rely on observation systems and Air Force aircraft to counter armed cells.

Concurrently, Israel conveyed a message to the Lebanese government via the United States stating that residents will not be permitted to return to the evacuated areas at this stage. The issue of population return is expected to be discussed during direct negotiations between the countries, resuming next week in Rome.