IDF Destroys Hezbollah Tunnel Network in Southern Lebanon

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Thursday that the IDF's 36th Division has destroyed Hezbollah's underground tunnel network on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, completing the organization of the security zone. The operation, which involved detonating the tunnels, registered a minor earthquake of magnitude 4.1 in the Nabatieh region, according to a U.S. Geological Survey. The tunnels, described as strategic infrastructure built over two decades with Iranian funding and planning, were intended to serve as a base for conquering the Galilee and controlling observation and fire on Metula and Kiryat Shmona. Their destruction reportedly achieves operational control over the ridge, both above and below ground.

The IDF confirmed the destruction, stating the tunnels spanned over two kilometers and contained dozens of Iranian-made rockets, missiles, and drones, along with machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and hundreds of mines and explosives. A central command complex for Hezbollah's "Badr" unit was also discovered within the tunnels, featuring command centers, weapons storage rooms, and living quarters for militants. IDF Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Avi Daffin stated that the military increased pressure on the tunnels and the militants entrenched within, leading to their elimination or flight, despite Hezbollah's vow to defend the infrastructure.

Daffin further detailed that the 36th Division captured the Beaufort ridge from an unexpected direction after crossing the Litani River, surprising Hezbollah. Following the ridge's capture, commando and engineering forces from the Yahalom unit cleared and prepared the tunnels for destruction. The IDF views the destruction as further proof of Hezbollah's role as an arm of the Iranian regime, aiming to harm Israel and destabilize the region.

Following the tunnel demolition, an Israeli source told Al-Hadath TV that Israel had raised its alert level for both defense and offense. Israel reportedly conveyed a message to Hezbollah and Iran that any response would be met with a disproportionate reaction. The operation followed earlier reports of explosions in southern Lebanon, including in the Nabatieh and Bani Hayyan areas.