IDF Reports Strikes in Lebanon, Gaza, West Bank; Eliminates Hamas Commander

The Israeli military announced on Thursday the completion of operations to destroy an underground infrastructure network in the Al-Tahir Heights area of southern Lebanon. This network, described as a significant Hezbollah command and control hub built over years with Iranian assistance, spanned over 5,400 meters and was targeted using more than 1,100 tons of explosives. Recovered items included explosive drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and hundreds of mines and RPGs. The IDF stated it would not allow Hezbollah to rebuild its capabilities in the region, noting recent drone attacks by the group against Israeli forces. In response to these violations, the IDF attacked targets in southern Lebanon.

In the Gaza Strip, the IDF reported eliminating militants from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad who were violating the ceasefire by targeting Israeli forces and citizens. A precise strike in Khan Younis by the IDF and Shin Bet eliminated Mohammed Al-Yazouri, identified as the commander of Hamas's Khan Younis brigade, who was reportedly overseeing numerous operations and working to rebuild the brigade's capabilities. Other militants, including a company commander, were also killed in the raid. The IDF also destroyed Hamas and Islamic Jihad weapons depots in Gaza containing explosives, anti-tank missiles, and other military equipment.

In the West Bank, an counter-terrorism operation in the village of Aqaba led to the arrest of Hamas operatives involved in attacks against Israelis. The IDF also reported eliminating a suspect responsible for a stabbing attack near the village of Awserin. Security forces thwarted an arms smuggling attempt in the eastern sector, seizing over 30 pistols and two M-16 rifles. Concurrently, a surprise drill involving all battalions of the Judea and Samaria division began Friday to assess readiness for potential scenarios during the upcoming Jewish holidays.

Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that these actions send a message to adversaries about the IDF's high level of readiness and capability to defend Israel and strike those who harm it. He emphasized the IDF's simultaneous operations across all fronts, focusing on destroying infrastructure, eliminating militants, thwarting smuggling and attacks, and preventing terrorist organizations from rebuilding their capabilities.