IDF Monitors Dozens of Hezbollah Militants Trapped Underground in Lebanon Amid Iranian Pressure

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have destroyed underground tunnels near the village of Majdal Zoun in Lebanon, where dozens of Hezbollah militants remain trapped beneath the surface in the Ali Taher ridge area. Due to Iranian pressure and American mediation, the IDF has maintained a low profile and refrained from public statements regarding the situation. The primary concern is that any attack on the trapped militants could provoke a violent response from Hezbollah and Iranian military intervention.

Northern Command is closely monitoring the entrances to the underground network. Intelligence assessments indicate that the militants have supplies including water, food such as dates and canned goods, and medicine, allowing them to survive for several more weeks. The militants face a stark choice: surrender or perish from starvation. The dilemma is expected to intensify as their resources dwindle.

Several weeks ago, the IDF successfully encircled an underground system near the village of Tibnine, located four kilometers southeast of Nabatieh and 37 kilometers southeast of Sidon. This operation was enabled by precise intelligence from various Military Intelligence Directorate (AMAN) units and Northern Command. During that time, mediators conveyed messages to Israel seeking safe passage for the militants, but Israeli officials responded unequivocally that the militants must surrender or face death underground.

The IDF continues to monitor the situation carefully, balancing operational security with the risks of escalation involving Hezbollah and Iran.