IDF Destroys Extensive Hezbollah Tunnel Network in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has released new footage from within a strategic underground complex built by Hezbollah over two decades beneath the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. The footage shows Hezbollah operatives moving through the narrow, branching tunnels and displays equipment found inside.

The extensive tunnel network, spanning over two kilometers, was destroyed by the IDF on September 25th using more than 1,100 tons of explosives. The operation, described by the IDF as one of its most complex in recent years, lasted approximately three months and was part of a broader initiative that began four months prior.

According to the IDF, the underground facility housed dozens of Iranian-made rockets, missiles, and drones, along with machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and hundreds of mines and explosives. The military stated that around 50 Hezbollah operatives were initially in the complex, with most eliminated during the operation and others attempting to flee, some of whom were injured. Hezbollah reportedly tried to reinforce the position, evacuate casualties, and supply its operatives, with at least ten additional operatives attempting to reach the ridge and being targeted.

The IDF clarified that contrary to some reports, the complex did not contain hundreds of operatives or Iranian personnel. The military also noted that Hezbollah operatives had the opportunity to surrender but did not. The operation involved overcoming significant challenges, including constant threats from explosives and intelligence gathering, as forces first neutralized above-ground infrastructure before entering and destroying the tunnels from within.

The destruction of the tunnel network, which registered as a seismic event, has significantly degraded Hezbollah's capabilities in the area and eliminated Iranian infrastructure, according to the IDF. The military emphasized that the operation's completion does not signify a withdrawal, and IDF forces will maintain control and enforcement along the border, with no planned changes to the deployment of two divisions in the region.