Israel Destroys Hezbollah Strategic Tunnels in Southern Lebanon

Israel announced on Tuesday the destruction of strategic underground military infrastructure in the Ali Al-Taher area of southern Lebanon, according to a joint statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The operation, carried out under their directive, targeted facilities built over years that Israeli authorities described as part of Hezbollah's military buildup.

The statement claimed the destroyed infrastructure included a headquarters and was used for military operations, controlling areas in northern Israel, and facilitating surveillance and firing capabilities towards Israeli towns like Metula and Kiryat Shmona. Israel alleged that Hezbollah developed these structures over two decades with financial and planning support from Iran, deeming them a critical part of the organization's military capacity in southern Lebanon.

While the statement asserted the destruction enhanced operational control over the Ali Al-Taher range, it provided no technical details on the facilities or the extent of the damage. The operation occurs amid ongoing tensions along the Lebanese border, with Israel focused on preventing Hezbollah's military resurgence in areas deemed of security importance.

Netanyahu and Gallant stated that Israeli forces will remain in the "security zone" and continue operations against what Israel defines as military infrastructure, aiming to thwart any attempts by Hezbollah to re-establish its presence or capabilities. The military is preparing for continued deployment and defense to prevent the return of Hezbollah elements and infrastructure, emphasizing the protection of northern Israeli communities and warning of a strong response to any attacks on Israeli civilians or forces.

The joint statement reiterated that destroying these structures completes operational control over the Ali Al-Taher range, both above and below ground. It concluded by affirming Israel's commitment to protecting northern towns from Lebanese territory and warned that any attempt to harm Israelis would be met with a powerful response, with further details on the operation's outcomes expected later.