Israel claims destruction of Hezbollah base in contested Lebanese ridge

The Israeli military announced on Thursday that it has destroyed a key Hezbollah underground facility located at the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. Government officials stated that the operation strengthens Israel’s so-called security zone in the region.

In a joint statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Israeli troops would remain stationed in the area to prevent the Iran-backed militant group from rebuilding its capabilities. The ridge, situated approximately 15 kilometers (10 miles) from the Israeli border, has emerged as one of the most fiercely contested sites in the ongoing conflict.

Katz had previously claimed last Friday that forces had expelled Hezbollah fighters from a network of tunnels beneath the disputed highland. According to Reuters, citing unnamed Lebanese security sources, Hezbollah is believed to have constructed an underground command center and weapons storage at the site in July.

The Israeli military reported achieving “operational control” both above and below ground before dismantling the infrastructure. The underground complex, spanning more than 2 kilometers, reportedly housed dozens of rockets, missiles, drones, anti-tank weapons, and mines. Authorities identified a central command complex belonging to Hezbollah’s Badr unit within the facility, which included living quarters designed to sustain fighters for extended periods.

Lebanon’s National News Agency reported that the strike involved a powerful explosion, with tremors and sound felt across Nabatieh and surrounding areas. Hezbollah has not yet issued a response to the attack.

The operation takes place despite a ceasefire agreement reached in June. US-brokered terms called for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon in exchange for the disarmament of Hezbollah by Lebanese troops. However, the process has stalled, with Israel refusing to withdraw until the group surrenders its weapons, while Hezbollah has refused to comply.

Since 2023, Israel has occupied strategic positions in southern Lebanon, establishing what it describes as a buffer zone. Additionally, Iran reportedly warned the United States last month that it would respond forcefully if Israeli attacks on the ridge continued.