IDF Destroys Hezbollah's Extensive Underground Network in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have concluded operations to dismantle Hezbollah's subterranean infrastructure along the Ali al-Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon. The military announced the completion of this phase, which involved destroying over two kilometers of tunnels and underground facilities that had been under development for more than 20 years. The operation, which culminated on Thursday, utilized approximately 1,100 tons of explosives to collapse the tunnels.

The IDF stated that this action "completely deprives Hezbollah of the ability to use this infrastructure for planning and carrying out attacks against Israeli citizens and soldiers." The destroyed complex reportedly housed Hezbollah's "Badr" unit's central command, including command posts, weapons storage, and living quarters, enabling militants to operate underground for extended periods. The IDF also reported discovering dozens of Iranian-made rockets and drones, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and hundreds of mines and explosive devices within the facilities.

According to the IDF, Iran financed and planned the construction of this strategic infrastructure. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the operation, warning that any retaliatory actions by Hezbollah would be met with a "powerful response." The IDF reiterated its commitment to operating within the security zone in southern Lebanon to eliminate threats and terrorist infrastructure, asserting that it will not allow Hezbollah to endanger Israeli citizens while continuing to adhere to the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon.

In a joint statement, Netanyahu and Katz declared that the IDF will remain in the security zone, continue destroying terrorist infrastructure, and prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its capabilities. They emphasized that Israel will defend its northern communities by operating from Lebanese territory and that any harm to Israeli citizens or forces will elicit a strong response. Defense Minister Katz also issued a stern warning to Iran, stating that an Iranian attack on Israel would remove all limitations, leading to strikes on all infrastructure, including energy, and pushing Iran back to the "stone age."

Katz further stated that Israel has no intention of withdrawing from the southern Lebanon security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed and the threat to the residents of the Galilee is eliminated. This declaration comes amid reports of Hezbollah seeking assistance from Iran and following alleged threats from Iran to Israel, conveyed through intermediaries in August.