IDF Dismantles Hezbollah's Extensive Underground Network in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli military has revealed details of a prolonged operation in the Al-Taher ridge area of southern Lebanon, targeting a significant Hezbollah underground infrastructure. Over recent months, forces from Division 36, the Commando Brigade, and the Yahalom unit systematically dismantled the network. The operation, conducted in stages, aimed to first secure the surface area and then neutralize the subterranean facilities.

Initial efforts focused on gaining control of the Al-Taher ridge above ground, involving ambushes, attacks on tunnel entrances, and drone and artillery strikes against identified Hezbollah positions. Once the surface was secured, troops advanced to confront the underground network. The IDF stated the operation was designed to deny Hezbollah the use of these tunnels for planning and executing attacks against Israel.

During the operation, sustained pressure was applied to Hezbollah operatives in the area, leading some to flee and others to be eliminated. The IDF reported intercepting and neutralizing attempts to resupply or exit the tunnels, often through rapid air and artillery strikes. In one instance, Egoz unit soldiers engaged and killed a militant attempting to escape a tunnel.

The IDF highlighted two key achievements: the destruction of a strategic Hezbollah command and control center, identified as part of the "Badr" unit, and the establishment of operational control over the Al-Taher ridge, which overlooks the Nabatieh region. Notably, over 1,100 tons of explosives were used to destroy the underground infrastructure. The network comprised eight tunnels totaling more than 5,400 meters in length, where forces discovered numerous weapons, including explosive drones, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, mines, and RPGs.

Most of the underground network was destroyed to prevent its reuse. This operation follows similar actions in the Beaufort ridge area and nearby villages. The IDF emphasized that operations continue in southern Lebanon to locate and destroy further infrastructure and prevent Hezbollah's re-establishment in the region, while remaining prepared for potential escalations.