IDF Dismantles Hezbollah's Key Command Complex in Secret Operation

The Israeli military (IDF) has successfully dismantled a significant Hezbollah command complex located on the Al-Taher mountain ridge in Lebanon, following a three-month covert operation. Special forces units, including the "Egoz" and "Yal" units, conducted the operation, which targeted the main command center of Hezbollah's "Badr" unit. The IDF gradually established control over the area, encircling approximately 50 Hezbollah operatives who were hiding in tunnels. Attempts to resupply the militants were thwarted, and the tunnels were ultimately destroyed by explosives on Thursday.

According to Lieutenant Colonel M., commander of the "Egoz" unit, dozens of militants were killed during the operation. He stated that the operatives refused to abandon the complex due to its strategic importance, as it served as a base for directing combat activities. The operation was executed in phases, beginning with the encirclement of the ridge and mapping of tunnel entrances, followed by operations within the tunnels, which were heavily booby-trapped.

Initially, the militants underestimated the extent of the IDF's presence and control on the surface. "The moment it became clear to them, from their looks, facial expressions, and body language, that the situation had reached them, we had no doubt about the outcome," Lieutenant Colonel M. reported. Elite IDF units established operational control of the territory while simultaneously trapping the militants underground. Some militants attempting to escape the tunnels were killed in close-quarters combat.

Major B. likened the fighting to a chess match, with both sides making countermoves. The IDF developed tactics to effectively counter the militants, with a complete blockade of the area proving to be the most effective strategy. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the Al-Taher ridge is within Israel's security zone in Lebanon, and the IDF intends to maintain operational control, preventing Hezbollah or other armed groups from returning. Katz also issued a warning that anyone approaching the ridge would be eliminated.