IDF Officer Describes Intense Fighting and Tunnel Discovery in Hezbollah Stronghold in South Lebanon

Captain M, a company commander in the Givati Brigade's Sabra Battalion, spoke with journalist Yishai Cohen from the heart of Hezbollah's stronghold in Al-Hiyam, southern Lebanon. He detailed fierce close-range battles with Hezbollah militants in the area, which has long been a launch site for anti-tank missiles targeting civilian vehicles in the Israeli border towns of Metula and Kfar Yuval. The IDF has shifted its approach from defensive positions along the border to aggressive operations deep inside southern Lebanon.

During combat operations, Israeli forces discovered a significant tactical tunnel beneath a clothing store called "Cheap Clothes," which was found by chance without prior intelligence. Captain M emphasized that such tunnels pose a severe threat to troops, as militants can disappear underground instantly, making airstrikes insufficient. He stressed the necessity of ground forces conducting thorough house-to-house searches to dismantle Hezbollah's terror infrastructure.

Captain M confirmed that the IDF has been operating in the area for about four months, engaging in intense fighting that has now subsided due to the soldiers' efforts. He highlighted that the presence of Israeli forces in Al-Hiyam has effectively neutralized the direct threat of anti-tank missile fire on Israeli civilians in Metula, restoring security to the region. The officer pledged that the IDF will remain in southern Lebanon until victory is achieved, with no tolerance for leaving behind any Hezbollah weapons or operatives.

Addressing concerns about political ceasefire declarations, Captain M stated that operational freedom remains intact, and the IDF continues to conduct demolition and combat missions daily to eliminate threats. He affirmed that no ceasefire will endanger his troops or halt their mission to secure the northern border.

The interview also touched on the personal tragedy of Captain M, whose father was killed in Gaza at the war's outset, and who recently lost another son. Despite these losses, the captain remains resolute in his commitment to the mission in Lebanon.