IDF seizes Hezbollah tunnel with rocket launch shafts in southern Lebanon
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The IDF announced soldiers seized a large Hezbollah tunnel in southern Lebanon containing four rocket launch shafts.
- The 200-meter-long, 25-meter-deep tunnel was used to regularly target Israel and was difficult to destroy via airstrikes.
- During the operation, the IDF killed 20 Hezbollah terrorists and seized or destroyed approximately 50 items of terror infrastructure.
The Israeli military announced Sunday that soldiers from the 91st Division's 551st Brigade captured a significant Hezbollah tunnel in Majdal Zoun, southern Lebanon. This tunnel, located about 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory, featured four rocket launch shafts that the group frequently used to attack Israel. The IDF noted these shafts were challenging to neutralize with airstrikes, making close-quarters operations necessary.
the ceasefire which was announced is shaky and we need to be ready with the highest preparedness to renew our military actions, and to thwart the threats, including quickly transitioning to go on the attack if required.
The 200-meter-long and 25-meter-deep tunnel also served as a hub for various terror operations, with footage showing 12 separate rooms. During the operation to seize the tunnel, the IDF reported killing 20 Hezbollah terrorists, including 10 from the elite Radwan Forces. Additionally, soldiers confiscated or destroyed around 50 pieces of terror infrastructure and munitions, such as drones, anti-tank missiles, and lookout posts. IDF footage highlighted the seizure of large, powerful rockets stored within the tunnel.
All of the IDF's resources are dedicated to this.
Meanwhile, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir addressed soldiers in Lebanon, describing the current ceasefire as "shaky." He emphasized the need for the IDF to maintain the highest level of preparedness to resume military actions and thwart threats, including a rapid transition to offense if required. Zamir stated that one of the key lessons from the October 7th attacks was Israel's commitment to preventing enemies from building up forces near its borders. He also highlighted the IDF's success in putting Hezbollah on the defensive by securing areas and tunnels around Majdal Zoun, Ali Taher Ridge, and Beaufort Castle.
Israel would never again allow its enemies to build up their forces right on its border for an attack on the Jewish state.
Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.