IDF Destroys Hezbollah's Strategic Tunnel Network in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the completion of a large-scale operation in the Ali Taher ridge area of southern Lebanon, during which Hezbollah's strategic underground infrastructure was destroyed. The IDF stated that the operation was carried out under the directive of the Prime Minister and Defense Minister and represents a further step in consolidating the forces' operational control in the security zone of southern Lebanon.

According to the IDF, the network in the Ali Taher ridge was developed over approximately two decades with Iranian assistance. The military described it as an extensive infrastructure including underground compounds, command posts, and facilities designed to enable Hezbollah to operate long-term from fortified positions. The compounds were reportedly planned to support Hezbollah's operational plan to conquer Israeli communities in the Galilee and to provide the organization with control over fire and observation towards key areas along the northern border.

The IDF emphasized that the destruction of this infrastructure allows for full operational control of the ridge, both above and below ground. The forces are preparing for prolonged defense in the area to prevent Hezbollah from re-establishing military infrastructure. The IDF will continue to operate within the southern Lebanese security zone to destroy further terror infrastructure and thwart Hezbollah's attempts to rebuild its military capabilities or re-establish a presence near the border.

Defense officials view the operation as part of a broader policy to remove the threat from northern Israeli communities and prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding offensive capabilities near Israel. The IDF stated that Israel will continue to defend its northern residents by operating within Lebanese territory, warning that any attempt to harm civilians or IDF forces will be met with a significant military response. This operation follows a series of recent IDF actions against Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon aimed at altering the security reality along the border and reducing the organization's ability to re-establish itself in the area.