Israel Claims Destruction of Hezbollah Tunnels in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli military announced on Thursday that it destroyed underground infrastructure belonging to Hezbollah at the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. This operation comes one week after Israel claimed operational control over the strategic highland located about fifteen kilometers from the border.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz stated in a joint announcement that Israeli forces would remain in the area. They aim to prevent the Iran-aligned militant group from re-establishing its presence or rebuilding its military capabilities within the disputed territory near the northern border.

The military described the underground network as extending more than two kilometers and containing dozens of rockets, missiles, and drones. It also held anti-tank missiles, mines, and explosive devices, along with a central command complex for Hezbollah’s Badr unit that included living quarters for fighters.

A powerful blast was reported at the ridge, with tremors felt across Nabatieh and surrounding areas. According to reports, Hezbollah had built an underground command centre and weapons stores there in July, making it a key target for Israeli operations recently.

These strikes continue despite a June ceasefire and a US-brokered framework calling for gradual Israeli withdrawal. The process has stalled because Hezbollah refuses to disarm while Israel insists on staying until the group gives up its weapons, occupying swathes of land to maintain a buffer zone.