Israel Deepens Control Over Southern Lebanon's Strategic Ridges
Israel is solidifying its operational control over key strategic ridges in southern Lebanon, including the Beaufort and Ali al-Taher ridges, with no intention of withdrawing unless a binding political agreement is reached. This move comes amidst extensive engineering operations, including the simultaneous destruction of over 15 Hezbollah tunnels. In response to a recent explosive drone attack targeting IDF forces, the Israeli Air Force launched significant strikes in the Nabatieh region, issuing a clear warning against further attacks on its troops.
A security official told N12 that Hezbollah's increasing reliance on drones is a direct consequence of losing control over these vital territories. "Hezbollah understands that the ridge is already under full operational control and they have nothing to do with it," the official stated, adding that the group's actions are desperate and that Israel will respond forcefully to any drone launched against its forces.
IDF troops are currently operating in reinforced formations in southern Lebanon, completing preparations to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure in the Ali al-Taher and Beaufort ridges. This meticulous engineering operation, guided by strict Northern Command directives to ensure soldier safety, is expected to continue for several more days. The military reports that clearance operations in underground complexes are complete, with no live militants found, and that numerous Hezbollah operatives' bodies were discovered within the tunnels.
The Lebanese MTV channel reported that over 15 tunnels were detonated simultaneously in an area stretching between the village of Yammour and the Ali al-Taher ridge. Following the destruction of underground infrastructure, the IDF plans to redeploy forces to secure the dominant positions.
In retaliation for the drone attack, the military focused its response on the Nabatieh area. Before the strikes, IDF Arabic spokesperson Lt. Col. Ella Vaouya issued an urgent warning to residents of southern Lebanon, particularly in the village of Deir ez-Zahrani, urging them to evacuate a targeted Hezbollah facility and its surroundings. The facility was subsequently attacked.
Additionally, the Air Force struck other targets, including an apartment in Nabatieh used by Hezbollah operatives and sites in Nabatieh al-Fawqa and Arbaceel. In the village of Rmeine, a structure and a vehicle were hit, reportedly resulting in 11 deaths and five injuries, according to Lebanese reports. These strikes caused panic and led to a large-scale displacement of residents.
Lebanese political sources expressed grave concern, interpreting Israel's actions as a new phase aimed at expanding a security zone and annexing more territory. They warned that these developments exceed mere violations of the framework agreement and could impact future negotiations. Lebanon's political echelon is planning urgent meetings to pressure the international community to halt Israeli actions, citing uncertainty about the full scope of the IDF's operational plan.
