IDF Engineering Vehicle Hit in South Lebanon Amid Ceasefire, Hezbollah Suspected

An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) engineering vehicle was damaged overnight near the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon during the ongoing ceasefire. The IDF is investigating whether Hezbollah launched an explosive drone at the forces, which would constitute a violation of the ceasefire agreement. The incident occurred in the area where the IDF's 36th Division operates along the Blue Line.

Since the ceasefire began, Hezbollah has frequently deployed reconnaissance drones to monitor Israeli forces, but this appears to be the first use of an explosive drone in an attack on Israeli equipment. The IDF spokesperson stated that soldiers from Battalion 601 and the Combat Engineering Corps, under Brigade 401 of the 91st Division, destroyed an underground Hezbollah command post in the village of Hdata within the Israeli-controlled security zone. The tunnel was approximately 55 meters long with three living chambers, located beneath a building materials factory about 300 meters from a UNIFIL facility. A vertical shaft containing dozens of weapons was also found.

The IDF emphasized its commitment to neutralizing threats and preventing Hezbollah from harming Israeli civilians. Meanwhile, despite Lebanese Army efforts to disarm Hezbollah, the group is showing signs of rebuilding in southern Lebanon. Recently, Hezbollah attempted to open a new branch of "Al-Qard Al-Hasan," known as the organization's financial institution, in Tyre. Local residents oppose this due to fears it would make the area a target for Israeli strikes.

Lebanese media quoted political activist Harry Mourd, who noted a shift in the Shiite community's mood, criticizing Hezbollah's decisions and calling for an alternative to the violence associated with Iranian influence. Supporters of Hezbollah argue the bank plays a vital social and economic role within the community.

In related developments, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, presenting a plan to disarm Hezbollah and strengthen the Lebanese Army's authority. The plan involves placing all weapons under state control and ensuring pilot areas are free of Hezbollah's military infrastructure. Trump expressed openness to dialogue with Hezbollah but said he would investigate recent security incidents involving Lebanese forces crossing into the Israeli security zone.