Israel Completes Security Zone Organization in Southern Lebanon

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Thursday that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have completed the destruction of Hezbollah's underground infrastructure on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, thereby finalizing the organization of a security zone in the area. According to the joint statement, this strategic terror infrastructure was built over two decades with Iranian funding and planning, intended to serve as a base for conquering the Galilee. The infrastructure and command center were located on the ridge and controlled observation and fire over the Israeli towns of Metula and Kiryat Shmona.

Netanyahu and Katz stated that the destruction of this infrastructure achieves operational control over the Ali Taher ridge, both above and below ground. IDF forces are now preparing to defend the area and prevent Hezbollah from re-establishing its presence. The IDF will remain in the security zone and continue to operate against Hezbollah infrastructure and any attempts by the organization to rebuild its capabilities.

The leaders issued a strong message, asserting that "Israel will continue to defend the northern communities from within Lebanon, and any attempt to harm our citizens and our forces will be met with force."