IDF Prepares Response to Hezbollah Drone Attack Amid South Lebanon Withdrawal Pilot

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing to respond to a violation of the ceasefire by Hezbollah after a drone carrying an explosive device was launched into an unmanned D-9 bulldozer in the Ali Taher ridge area in southern Lebanon. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon, and Israeli officials believe Hezbollah's action stems from frustration over the IDF presence in the ridge, where 30 militants are held and await weapons and reinforcements from Hezbollah that have not arrived.

IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi visited fighters and commanders of the Kfir Brigade (900) operating in southern Lebanon, stating, "If required, we will deepen our operations and reach additional areas in Lebanon. The IDF will not withdraw from the territories we have captured until long-term security is ensured." He emphasized that the campaign across all fronts is ongoing and urged troops to remain alert and ready for rapid, offensive actions.

The IDF confirmed it struck the drone without casualties, condemning the attack as a blatant breach of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Forces continue to operate in the ridge area to prevent militants from advancing terrorist plans.

This incident comes amid a pilot program agreed upon by Israel and Lebanon, initiated last week with U.S. support, to facilitate the IDF's withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon. The Lebanese army entered areas vacated by the IDF, but tensions remain high, with accusations of Israeli fire near Lebanese units in the Nabatiyeh region. The U.S. State Department affirmed its commitment to closely cooperate with both sides to ensure the pilot's successful implementation in the villages of Farran, Sarifa, and Zotar al-Arabia.