IDF Takes Control of Hezbollah Stronghold in South Lebanon, Kills Over 50 Militants

Fighting in southern Lebanon is escalating: troops from the 7th Brigade combat team, together with fighters from the Egoz Unit and under the command of the 36th Division, completed in recent days a large-scale operational effort to gain control of Hezbollah’s forward defense line, the area north of the Saluki River.

The area was defined as a strategic focus for Hezbollah and served as a central base for launching explosive drones and carrying out intense indirect fire against IDF forces and the communities of the Finger of the Galilee and Metula. The operation was intended to remove the direct threat over the heads of residents in the north.

During the intense activity, the fighters engaged in fierce battles with militant cells entrenched in complex terrain sectors. In close cooperation with the Air Force, the forces destroyed hundreds of terror infrastructure sites and killed more than 50 militants. Searches conducted in buildings and hiding areas uncovered and seized large quantities of weapons, including deadly explosive devices, anti-tank missiles and launchers that were ready for use.

The IDF said this is another step in strengthening operational control in southern Lebanon, as part of the effort to push terror forces away from the border and ensure the security of northern communities. Offensive activity continues, with forces on the ground making clear that the terror organization will not be allowed to reestablish a foothold in the area.