Israel Reduces Forces in Southern Lebanon After Operational Successes

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have significantly reduced the number of combat troops deployed in southern Lebanon in recent days. According to a report by Galei Tzahal (Army Radio), four brigades have withdrawn from the area, replaced by two regular brigades, bringing the total number of active combat brigades from eight down to six.

Among the departing units are the Commando Brigade, which operated in the Ali Taher ridge and destroyed underground tunnels, and the Golani Brigade, which was active in the Beaufort area. Two reserve brigades, the 55th Paratroopers Reserve Brigade and the 4th "Kiryati" Armored Reserve Brigade, also left the sector. The two regular brigades entering the area are the 188th Armored Brigade and the Bislamach training brigade, which are now covering extensive sectors within southern Lebanon.

A military source familiar with the details stated that the troop reduction is intended to alleviate personnel shortages, particularly within the reserve forces, after prolonged combat operations in Lebanon. The source added that the move is also facilitated by improved operational conditions on the ground, including a de facto ceasefire, the completion of the mission to destroy the Ali Taher ridge, and progress in dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure in additional villages in southern Lebanon.

This reduction follows weeks of consideration within the defense establishment regarding a significant decrease in forces in southern Lebanon. The decision was prompted by the successful destruction of tunnels in the Ali Taher ridge and a strategic reassessment of forces in the region.