IDF Spokesperson Details Destruction of Hezbollah Underground Infrastructure in Southern Lebanon
IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Avi Drorin announced the completion of a significant operation in southern Lebanon, deep within the Ali Taher ridge. He stated that following the Northern Command and the 36th Division's operational control of the ridge, the destruction and neutralization of Hezbollah's underground infrastructure network has been finalized. This extensive network, built over two decades with funding and guidance from Iran, served as a central command complex and the nerve center for Hezbollah's Badr unit in the region. It was used to manage combat operations during previous conflicts, including Operation Northern Shield, Operation Lion's Roar, and the current fighting.
The operation involved a ground maneuver employing a ruse and deception. Forces from the 36th Division unexpectedly captured the Beaufort ridge after crossing the Litani River, surprising Hezbollah. Subsequently, the Commando Brigade and engineering forces from the Yahalom unit systematically cleared and prepared the tunnels for destruction. In recent months, Israeli forces encircled the area, increasing pressure on the tunnels and the militants entrenched within. Hezbollah fighters attempting to abandon the tunnels or resupply besieged militants were eliminated by air and ground strikes, while others attempting to flee were killed in close-quarters combat.
Drorin asserted that all militants within the infrastructure were either killed or fled, despite Hezbollah's claims of defending it at all costs. He noted that significant amounts of weaponry manufactured by Iran were found within the tunnels, reinforcing the assertion that Hezbollah acts as an Iranian proxy. The IDF spokesperson emphasized that this achievement, while significant, came at a heavy cost, with fallen soldiers during the operation. He extended wishes for a speedy recovery to the wounded and pledged continued efforts to protect northern Israeli communities and neutralize threats along all borders, acting as a barrier against any danger to Israeli citizens and forces.