IDF Destroys Hezbollah Tunnels in South Lebanon Using 700 Tons of Explosives

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the destruction of several underground tunnels in the Bofor ridge area of southern Lebanon following a violation of the ceasefire agreement by Hezbollah. The operation, carried out overnight Thursday into Friday, involved detonating approximately 700 tons of explosives to demolish a strategic tunnel network that served as a central command hub for Hezbollah's Badr unit, which was funded and designed by Iran. The tunnels, located about six kilometers from Metula and the Galilee Panhandle, were used to launch dozens of drones, explosive-laden UAVs, and anti-tank missiles against Israeli forces and civilians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a joint statement condemning Hezbollah's breach of the ceasefire, citing the launch of an explosive drone toward IDF troops in southern Lebanon as the trigger for the operation. The IDF’s 36th Division, under Northern Command, completed weeks of preparations to secure and clear the tunnel infrastructure before executing the demolition. The military emphasized that the tunnels were not hiding places for militants but rather a sophisticated underground headquarters built over two decades.

The IDF continues to monitor remaining underground passages in the area and is also active near the Ali Taher ridge, a fortified Hezbollah stronghold near the city of Nabatiyeh, which was secured by Israeli forces prior to the ceasefire. This site is considered a nerve center for Hezbollah’s southern Lebanon operations and is heavily fortified with Iranian assistance. The IDF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining control over the security zone in southern Lebanon and to preventing Hezbollah from rebuilding its terrorist infrastructure.

Residents in northern Israel, including Metula and Misgav Am, were warned in advance about the loud explosions and advised to open windows to prevent damage from pressure waves. The IDF stressed that Israel will respond firmly to any future violations of the ceasefire and attacks on its forces or civilians. The operation was approved by Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who oversaw the planning and readiness for potential operational developments.

Summary: The IDF destroyed a major Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon using 700 tons of explosives after Hezbollah violated the ceasefire by sending an explosive drone toward Israeli forces. The tunnels served as a command center for Hezbollah’s Badr unit and were located near the Israeli border. The operation reflects Israel’s ongoing efforts to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military infrastructure in the region.