IDF's 36th Division Captures Bofor Ridge, Destroys Hezbollah Underground Networks

The Israeli Defense Forces' 36th Division, led by Brigadier General Yiftah Nurkin, successfully captured the Bofor Ridge and Ali Taher Ridge, clearing them of Hezbollah militants. The operation uncovered and destroyed extensive underground and above-ground terrorist infrastructure built by Hezbollah over 20 years with Iranian funding and guidance. These fortified positions controlled key observation and firing points over the Galilee Panhandle and the town of Metula, as well as protecting Nabatiyeh, the capital of southern Lebanon's Shiite region.

The tactical approach involved coordinated efforts from several combat battalions including the 7th, Golani, Givati, and Commando units, supported by the 282nd Artillery Brigade, engineering units from the Yahalom unit, and logistical support. The 7th Battalion secured the western flank in the Saluki area, neutralizing enemy ambushes and capturing the village of Andoriya. Golani Battalion engineered secret routes down to the Litani River, misleading the enemy, while clearing enemy positions in the mountainous terrain.

Engineering units performed a rare bridging operation over the Litani River, enabling tank units to cross and support the advance. Givati Battalion was the first to cross the Litani, securing strategic routes and neutralizing anti-tank ambushes, paving the way for Golani to advance toward the village of Yuhmor and the Bofor Ridge. The Golani Reconnaissance Unit, alongside Maglan and Yahalom forces, located a large underground network south of Bofor.

A senior Northern Command officer reported that Hezbollah forces abandoned the area almost without a fight due to the IDF's offensive. The Commando Battalion raided the village of Arnoun, destroying underground facilities and eliminating militants attempting to escape. Hezbollah attempted to disrupt the maneuver with drones, militant squads, and indirect fire but failed to halt the IDF's progress.

In recent weeks, the Commando Battalion expanded operations to Ali Taher Ridge, controlling this strategic area overlooking Nabatiyeh. Dozens of Hezbollah militants remain trapped in the underground infrastructure there, causing significant distress to the group. This ongoing pressure represents a major tactical success for the IDF in the region.