IDF Reveals Footage of Destroyed 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 Al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. The videos show Hezbollah operatives moving through the narrow, branching tunnels and reveal 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. According to the IDF, the complex served as a significant Iranian-backed military outpost, housing dozens of Iranian-made rockets, missiles, drones, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and mines.

The operation to dismantle the network was described by the IDF as one of the most complex in recent years, lasting approximately three months. It was part of a broader offensive that began four months prior, involving crossing the Litani River and employing deception tactics to surprise Hezbollah and degrade its regional presence. The IDF stated that around 50 Hezbollah operatives were initially in the underground system, with most eliminated during the operation and others killed or wounded while attempting to flee or reinforce the position.

IDF officials emphasized that contrary to some reports, the complex did not house hundreds of terrorists or Iranian experts. They also noted that Hezbollah operatives had the opportunity to surrender but did not. The operation involved clearing above-ground infrastructure and shafts before entering the subterranean system, where extensive intelligence was gathered and weapons were seized. A major logistical challenge was transporting the large quantities of explosives into the tunnels under constant threat.

The destruction of the tunnel network, which registered as a seismic event, has significantly degraded Hezbollah's capabilities in the area, according to the IDF. The military stated that its forces will maintain control and enforce their presence along the border, with no planned changes to the deployment of two divisions in the region.