IDF Destroys Hezbollah's Lebanon Tunnel Network with Massive Explosives Operation

The Israeli military has successfully destroyed a significant Hezbollah underground tunnel network located on the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, a project described as an Iranian-resourced engineering feat. The operation, which concluded about a month ago, involved the meticulous identification and mapping of tunnel entrances and over five kilometers of interconnected passages. Intelligence and engineering units from the Northern Command, supported by the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit, led the effort to locate the initial shafts, which were heavily booby-trapped and guarded by Hezbollah operatives.

The destroyed infrastructure was intended to serve as a critical artery for Hezbollah's Radwan forces, enabling them to direct fire and set ambushes against Israeli home front communities and IDF movements into northern Israel. Major General Ramy Aboudraham, head of the Technology and Logistics Directorate, personally inspected the site, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of dismantling the "monstrous infrastructure."

A complex logistical operation, considered one of the largest in recent IDF history, was then executed. Over four weeks, approximately 1,100 tons of sensitive explosives were transported over 30 kilometers into Lebanese territory, crossing challenging terrain including the Litani River and the Saluki Wadi. This involved specialized packaging, the deployment of a large fleet of adapted trucks, and night-time operations under constant threat of Hezbollah drone and rocket attacks.

Specialized heavy engineering equipment was used to construct ramps from which the explosives were funneled directly into the tunnels. The operation, codenamed "Northern Bow," required meticulous planning and execution by logistics officers from the 36th Division, who managed daily deliveries of around 100 tons of explosives. Despite facing ambushes, drone attacks, and difficult terrain, the forces successfully completed the mission ahead of schedule, with logistics officers working in constant communication with the combat engineers to ensure efficient and safe delivery.

During the operation, Hezbollah operatives attempted to resist the advance, with units like the Egoz reconnaissance unit engaging in prolonged battles to secure tunnel entrances. The logistical effort was supported by extensive coordination to overcome challenges such as vehicle breakdowns and the need for rapid resupply. The destruction of the tunnels occurred amidst Iranian threats against Israel and political pressure, highlighting the sensitive nature of the operation.