Israeli military destroys Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon

On September 10, 2026, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a large-scale operation in southern Lebanon, successfully destroying an extensive Hezbollah underground complex beneath the Ali Taher Ridge. According to military reports, the operation involved the use of over 1,100 tons of explosives to demolish a tunnel network spanning more than 5.4 kilometers. The resulting controlled explosion was powerful enough to be registered as a seismic event by the Israeli National Geological Institute.

Prior to the demolition, Israeli forces cleared eight distinct underground routes, uncovering significant caches of weaponry, including drones, anti-tank missiles, hundreds of mines, and various explosives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz stated that this operation completes the establishment of a security zone in the region. The IDF identified the complex as a strategic asset developed over two decades with Iranian support, originally intended as a base for launching operations into the Galilee and monitoring northern Israeli towns such as Metula and Kiryat Shmona.

The destruction of these facilities marks the achievement of operational control over the Ali Taher Ridge, covering both surface and subterranean environments. Israeli forces remain deployed in the area as they continue to secure the sector following the neutralization of this long-standing threat.