IDF Dismantles Hezbollah’s Long-Built Infrastructure Amid Leadership Changes in Lebanon

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue to inflict significant damage on Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon, dismantling facilities the group has developed over more than two decades. This ongoing campaign was highlighted during a recent situation assessment by the IDF Northern Command, led by Major General Rafi Milo, who operates under political pressure from Israel, Lebanon, and the United States. A senior Israeli security official stated that Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah’s "life’s work" is unraveling step by step as the IDF locates and destroys terror infrastructure built over 20 years.

The official emphasized that these destroyed sites were hubs for tens of thousands of operatives, and the IDF has demolished dozens of such centers with operations continuing. Additionally, generational shifts within Hezbollah’s leadership and field ranks are impairing the group’s daily functioning, decision-making, and strategic planning against Israel. The official noted that the organization’s uniqueness stemmed from commanders with decades of combat experience and deep understanding of Israeli dynamics, but these veterans are no longer present, replaced by less experienced leaders lacking strong ties to Tehran.

Regarding casualties, Israeli security sources estimate Hezbollah has lost between 7,000 and 9,000 fighters and commanders since the start of the conflict, with the current estimate around 8,000. These losses include fighters, support personnel, field commanders, and senior figures, including Nasrallah himself. Hezbollah’s meticulous record-keeping and gradual public disclosures are expected to clarify the full extent of the damage soon.

The official also highlighted the failure of Hezbollah’s "Galilee conquest plan" and the severe damage inflicted on the Radwan force, including its personnel and underground infrastructure. Emphasis was placed on long-term operational zones built carefully and funded by Iran near the Israeli border, which have also been targeted. Hezbollah’s extensive arsenal, reportedly comprising about 150,000 combat items, has suffered heavy blows, particularly in southern Lebanon. Despite political pressures from Beirut and Washington, Israeli security forces are determined to maintain the pace of locating and destroying Hezbollah’s infrastructure.