IDF to Destroy Hezbollah Tunnels in Southern Lebanon Before Withdrawing Forces

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is preparing to destroy two underground tunnel routes beneath the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon in the coming days, according to military sources cited by Kan News. These sources stated that no militants remain alive in the complex. Following the destruction of the tunnels, IDF forces will gradually withdraw from the "yellow line" and establish a new defensive position along the "gray line," situated 2 to 4 kilometers from the Israeli border.

Approximately 20 permanent outposts are planned along this new line, with control maintained through observation equipment and aerial assets. This operation follows an incident where two explosive drones were launched overnight towards IDF forces on the Ali Taher ridge, resulting in no casualties. In response, the Israeli Air Force struck targets in southern Lebanon, including a structure in Bint Jbeil al-Fawqa, previously used as a hospital.

Following the airstrike, the U.S. mechanism for monitoring and compliance requested clarifications. Israeli officials asserted that the building was utilized by Hezbollah for military activities and presented evidence to support this claim. The withdrawal plan is scheduled for approval by the commander of the Northern Command this week, followed by political leadership approval.

Concurrently, Israel has informed the Lebanese government that residents will not be permitted to return to the evacuated areas at this stage. This issue is expected to be addressed during direct negotiations resuming next week in Rome.