IDF Destroys Hezbollah's Main Tunnel Network in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have successfully destroyed Hezbollah's central tunnel network located on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, following months of intense fighting. The IDF stated that the extensive network, built over two decades with funding and guidance from Iran, was a key strategic asset for Hezbollah. "This network was built over two decades, funded and directed by the Iranian terror regime," an IDF spokesperson said. "In recent months, our forces encircled the area and increased pressure on the routes and on the terrorists entrenched within. All terrorists who were in the infrastructure were eliminated or fled, even though Hezbollah declared it would defend the infrastructure at all costs, it failed and even abandoned its men to die inside."

During the operation, the IDF's 36th Division, along with elite units like Shaldag, the Commando Brigade (including Egoz and Maglan), and armored forces from the 401st and 7th Brigades, engaged approximately 30 terrorists who were holed up in two strategic tunnels belonging to Hezbollah's Badr Force. The tunnels, described by the IDF as "Hezbollah's command center base in southern Lebanon," extended for hundreds of meters and included advanced command rooms, communication and computer systems, a clinic, an operating room, and weapons storage. The complex was designed for both defensive and offensive operations.

The destruction of the Ali Taher ridge complex, considered Hezbollah's last organized defensive position in southern Lebanon, significantly alters the strategic landscape, opening new operational pathways for the IDF towards Beirut and the Beqaa Valley. The IDF employed a cautious, methodical approach, utilizing elite units and specialized engineering capabilities, including the Yahalom unit of the Combat Engineering Corps, to overcome the complex underground defenses. Hezbollah had reportedly hoped for Iranian intervention to prevent the fall of the Badr Brigade's stronghold, having invested significant effort in recent weeks to draw Iran into deeper involvement in the conflict.