Israel strikes south Lebanon after destroying Hezbollah tunnel network

Israeli forces conducted multiple air raids on southern Lebanon, targeting Mansouri and areas near Tyre. The attacks struck residential neighborhoods and infrastructure, according to reports. Artillery fire was also reported near Meiss Ej Jabal town during the same period of heightened military activity.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli troops destroyed a Hezbollah underground facility near Nabatieh. He claimed the site contained weapons and military infrastructure. This announcement coincided with fresh airstrikes, signaling an escalation in cross-border operations aimed at dismantling militant capabilities in the region.

Defense Minister Israel Katz declared readiness to launch further strikes against Hezbollah. He cited the demolition of a vast tunnel network beneath the Ali al-Taher ridge as a key achievement. Katz argued this operation created a stronger security zone protecting northern Israeli communities from potential threats.

The Israeli army described the tunnel network as extending more than two kilometers. It allegedly contained Iranian-made rockets, missiles, drones, and a command center. Built over two decades with Iranian assistance, the complex included living quarters for fighters operating deep inside Lebanese territory near the border.

Late Thursday detonation produced a massive explosion recorded as a 4.1-magnitude tremor. Army chief Eyal Zamir warned of immediate responses to any Hezbollah attacks on northern communities. He urged the Lebanese army to demonstrate effectiveness in southern Lebanon to facilitate progress on force deployment agreements.

Zamir cautioned that failure by Lebanese forces could hinder diplomatic progress. The Ali al-Taher ridge lies near the self-declared security zone and Beaufort Castle. Recent seizures of strategic high ground aim to consolidate Israeli control while threatening Hezbollah positions deeper within Lebanese sovereign territory.