Israel Destroys Hezbollah Strategic Tunnels in Southern Lebanon

Israel announced the destruction of strategic underground military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, located in the Ali Al-Taher area. The operation was carried out under the direction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, according to a joint statement. Israeli authorities described the destroyed facilities as part of a military structure built over many years, which they claim was used by Hezbollah to carry out operations, control areas in northern Israel, and conduct surveillance and firing missions towards the Israeli towns of Metula and Kiryat Shmona.

The statement further alleged that the infrastructure, developed over approximately two decades with financial support and planning from Iran, represented a strategic component of Hezbollah's military capabilities in southern Lebanon. Israel asserted that destroying this site, which was part of an above-ground and underground system, enhanced its operational control over the region. The statement did not provide technical details about the destroyed facilities or the extent of the damage, nor were there independent confirmations of the Israeli claims regarding the nature of the targets.

This operation occurs amidst ongoing security tensions along the Lebanese border, with Israel prioritizing the prevention of Hezbollah's military buildup in areas deemed of security importance. Netanyahu and Gallant stated that Israeli forces will remain in the security zone and continue operations targeting what Israel describes as military infrastructure, while thwarting any attempts by Hezbollah to re-establish its presence or capabilities there.

The joint statement emphasized that the Israeli military is preparing for continued deployment and defense in the area, aiming to prevent the return of Hezbollah elements and infrastructure. The officials linked the continued military presence to protecting northern Israeli communities, warning that any attempt to target Israeli civilians or forces would be met with a strong response. The statement concluded by reiterating the goal of preventing Hezbollah from re-establishing its military capabilities and infrastructure in the region, with further details on the operation's outcomes expected in the future.