IDF Withdraws From Key Hezbollah Tunnel Complex in Lebanon, Vows Destruction

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has begun redeploying its forces in southern Lebanon, withdrawing from the Ali Taher ridge, a significant Hezbollah underground complex. The withdrawal preceded the complete destruction of the terror infrastructure on the ridge, with troops now positioned on the "yellow line" to maintain control through observation and fire. This redeployment, which began days ago, leaves IDF forces at the Beaufort compound.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the Ali Taher ridge is part of Israel's security zone in Lebanon, spanning 700 square kilometers. He reiterated that Israel will not withdraw from this zone until Hezbollah is disarmed, emphasizing that any attempt by Hezbollah or other entities to re-establish a presence on the ridge will be met with destruction. The IDF is operationally prepared to control the ridge and prevent any resurgence of Hezbollah activity, vowing to eliminate any threat.

The Ali Taher tunnels, built with Iranian assistance, were a central nerve of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Their depth and fortifications made them difficult to target from the air. The approximately 5.4-kilometer-long tunnel network housed Hezbollah's Badr sector command and heavy weaponry, offering strategic observation over key access routes to the Nabatieh plain and proximity to the Israeli border for launching attacks.

According to the IDF, the underground facilities included command centers, armories, generator rooms, living quarters, and kitchens, enabling terrorists to operate and reside there for extended periods. This strategic infrastructure was developed over two decades by Hezbollah's Badr unit, facilitating their combat operations and attacks against Israeli civilians and forces.

The destruction of the tunnels on Thursday evening involved over 1,100 tons of explosives. IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effi Drorin stated that the network, built over twenty years with Iranian funding and guidance, was secured after months of intensified pressure. He added that all terrorists within the infrastructure were either eliminated or fled, despite Hezbollah's claims to defend it.

During the operation, IDF forces, including the commando brigade and the Yahalom unit, discovered dozens of explosive drones, UAVs, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, hundreds of mines, RPGs, explosives, and other military equipment within the eight underground complexes. The IDF's phased operation involved gaining operational control above ground, followed by subterranean operations to neutralize the tunnel capabilities. Some terrorists abandoned the area, while others were eliminated attempting to flee or resupply. The IDF also neutralized terrorists attempting to escape or bring supplies, including one instance where a terrorist was killed in a face-to-face encounter during an attempted escape from a tunnel.

Amidst these operations, there were concerns about an Iranian response. Reports indicated Iran had warned of significant retaliation for a comprehensive operation on the ridge, and Hezbollah pressured Tehran to intervene. Israel, however, made it clear that any Iranian attack would not be limited to the Lebanese theater. While the Israeli defense establishment currently assesses the likelihood of broad escalation with Iran as low, military forces are prepared for limited Iranian responses or days of conflict in the north.