IDF Destroys Hezbollah Tunnel Network in Complex Southern Lebanon Operation

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released footage Friday of tunnels destroyed the previous day in the Ali Taher ridge area of southern Lebanon. The operation, which lasted four months and involved maneuvering forces along the ridge and the Litani River, was described by the IDF as one of the most complex undertaken in recent years. The IDF stated that significant measures were taken to avoid escalating the situation with Iran.

The operation, led by the Givati and 7th Brigades with support from the Duvdevan and Yahalom special units, began with a difficult crossing of the Litani River, as Hezbollah maintained near-total control of the area. Forces employed diversionary tactics and opened a bypass route for several weeks. Simultaneously, Golani Brigade reconnaissance units advanced to the Litani's center, while other units cleared the area through close-quarters combat, attacking from the river crossing and the rear to surprise Hezbollah.

Following the Golani Brigade's capture of the Beaufort, additional forces from the 36th Division targeted infrastructure further north before launching an assault on the Ali Taher ridge, identified as Hezbollah's command center. For three months, troops battled dozens of Hezbollah operatives entrenched underground who refused to surrender. The terrain, characterized by dense vegetation, rocks, and heavy fog, aided the IDF in neutralizing most of the militants.

While initial efforts focused on controlling the entire ridge, pressure intensified underground after achieving dominance. Hezbollah repeatedly attempted to send reinforcements, but the IDF eliminated these operatives and disrupted their supply lines. The IDF estimates dozens of Hezbollah fighters were left stranded in the tunnels, with some killed and others escaping. The IDF asserts the ridge is now clear of Hezbollah operatives.

Over 1,100 tons of explosives were used to demolish the tunnel network, which comprised eight underground routes totaling over 5,400 meters. The detonation caused a seismic event. The IDF discovered various weapons within the tunnels, including dozens of explosive drones, UAVs, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, hundreds of mines, RPGs, explosives, and other military equipment. The IDF stated that forces remain positioned in the area to prevent Hezbollah or any other entity from crossing the 'blue line' border, and they have no intention of withdrawing. Divisions 36 and 91 continue to operate in Lebanon.