IDF Leaves 11 Lebanon Border Outposts Vulnerable to Explosive Drones Due to Budget Cuts

The Israeli Northern Command and Ministry of Defense have decided not to equip 11 military outposts along the Lebanon border with proper protection against explosive drones due to budget constraints. In recent months, the IDF and Ministry of Defense contracted a civilian company to install extensive drone defense measures, including nets and other protective equipment, at border posts. However, work was halted at all locations after payments to the contractor stopped, and no budget was allocated for these 11 specific outposts from the start.

These outposts, many situated directly on the border, have been targeted in recent months by Hezbollah drone attacks, resulting in soldier injuries. While soldiers can deploy protective nets themselves, troops report that this is insufficient and less effective, with instances of explosive drones breaching such defenses. Just yesterday, the IDF neutralized a terrorist cell in Lebanon that had launched a drone attack on Israeli forces in the security zone, underscoring the ongoing threat.

In response, the Ministry of Defense and IDF spokesperson told Galei Tzahal that the IDF is continuously working to improve and reinforce border infrastructure as part of a broad security arrangement. They denied any decision to leave certain outposts unprotected, stating the process is gradual and follows a work plan. Upon completion, all outposts will be equipped with the required protective components according to IDF standards.