IDF Destroys Hezbollah's Strategic Tunnel Network in Southern Lebanon
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the completion of a major operation to destroy Hezbollah's strategic tunnel network in the Al-Tahir ridge area of southern Lebanon. Utilizing over 1,100 tons of explosives, the IDF dismantled underground infrastructure built over two decades with Iranian funding and design, intended for use in future conflicts with Israel and a planned invasion of northern Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the destruction of these facilities completes the achievement of operational control over the Al-Tahir ridge, both above and below ground, and solidifies the organization of the security zone in southern Lebanon. The Al-Tahir ridge holds strategic importance, overlooking the Israeli towns of Metula and Kiryat Shmona, and was used by Hezbollah to establish an extensive command, combat, and storage system.
The destroyed network comprised eight tunnels totaling over 5.4 kilometers in length. The operation involved demolishing over two kilometers of these tunnels after extensive engineering preparations. Inside, forces discovered dozens of Iranian-made rockets and missiles, explosive-laden drones, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, RPGs, and hundreds of mines and explosives. A central command complex for Hezbollah's "Badr" unit, including war rooms and storage facilities, was also found within the underground system.
The operation, conducted over months by forces from Division 36, the Commando Brigade, and the Yahalom unit, began with securing the surface area. This involved ambushes, attacking tunnel entrances, and engaging Hezbollah operatives. Following surface control, subterranean forces from Yahalom and other units explored, mapped, and cleared the tunnels of weaponry before detonating the majority of the tunnels to prevent their reuse.
The IDF highlighted two key achievements: neutralizing the command center and underground network of the "Badr" unit, and gaining operational control of the ridge itself. This operation follows previous IDF actions against Hezbollah's underground infrastructure in other southern Lebanese areas. The military stated it will continue to operate in southern Lebanon to eliminate threats and destroy terror infrastructure, preventing Hezbollah from re-establishing its capabilities. The IDF remains committed to the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and is preparing for various scenarios, including multi-front conflict.