IDF Chief of Staff: Hezbollah's Underground Terror Infrastructure Destroyed

Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi visited the 36th Division area following the destruction of Hezbollah's underground infrastructure on the Ali Taher ridge. Halevi stated that the IDF "destroyed the underground terror infrastructure" on the ridge, continuing the neutralization of the tunnel network on the Beaufort ridge. He described the destroyed infrastructure as a "vast system built with Iranian assistance over years with enormous investment," serving as Hezbollah's central command, control, and fighting network.

During the visit, Halevi revealed that the IDF located advanced Iranian-made weaponry within the sites, intended to harm Israeli forces and northern communities. He emphasized that Hezbollah initiated the conflict on the northern front after the October 7th Hamas attack, accusing the organization of "fighting and destroying Lebanon on behalf of the Iranian regime."

Halevi issued a stern warning to southern Lebanese villages, stating that any village hosting terror infrastructure or militants endangers itself. He cited examples of Kantara and Majdal Zoun, where entire villages were affected due to underground terror cities built beneath civilian homes. He reiterated that Hezbollah's investment in the Ali Taher ridge was wasted.

"After the severe blow Hezbollah sustained, we will not allow it to rehabilitate its capabilities and re-establish itself in the area," Halevi declared. "We will protect our communities at all costs. The IDF stands as a barrier on the front. Any harm to northern communities or IDF forces defending them will be met immediately and powerfully."

Halevi also sent a clear message to the Lebanese army, urging it to demonstrate effectiveness on the ground, otherwise, the agreement between Israel and Lebanon could be jeopardized. He confirmed that the "blue line remains under our full control and unchanged."

The Chief of Staff detailed extensive military operations in the sector over recent weeks, led by the Northern Command, the 36th Division, and combat brigades. He specifically praised the Commando Brigade and the Egoz, Maglan, and Yahalom units for their role in destroying the Ali Taher ridge infrastructure by Rosh Hashanah, as well as the Golani Brigade, the 7th Armored Brigade, and other forces operating on the front lines and underground. Halevi also remembered those who fell and were wounded in achieving these objectives, attributing the success to them.