Israel Reveals Hezbollah Underground Drone Base Near Lebanese Border

The Israeli military has unveiled a Hezbollah underground drone assembly and launch base located just kilometers from the Lebanese border. The facility, situated approximately 30 meters below ground in the hills of Mazdal Joun, was presented to the media as evidence of Hezbollah's capabilities and the necessity of Israel's continued operations against the group.

Israeli military officials stated that the underground complex, protected by large steel blast doors, was constructed over the past decade with significant financial and logistical support from Iran. Journalists were taken to the site under the cover of darkness, traveling along the Lebanese coast before heading to Mazdal Joun, about 6 kilometers from the border. Soldiers guided the group through tunnels, relying on moonlight and glow sticks.

IDF officials described the tunnels as wide enough for vehicles and revealed that Hezbollah used them to assemble Iranian-made drones from parts smuggled into Lebanon. Following the occupation of the tunnels, the IDF discovered around 50 unmanned aerial vehicles, each carrying approximately 30 kilograms of explosives. These drones are believed to be the same type used in a previous attack on a Golani Brigade training base in October 2024. Military analysts identified the drones as Iranian-designed 'Qasef' models, similar to those used by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

In addition to the drones, approximately 8 tons of explosives were found within the facility. The IDF also showed journalists vertical shafts used by Hezbollah to launch drones towards Israel. While the IDF had previously targeted this facility in 2024, Hezbollah reportedly attempted to repair and reactivate it. The Israeli military plans to demolish the site once its investigation is complete. This revelation comes as the U.S. and Iran are engaged in peace negotiations in Switzerland, with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah being a major point of contention.

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The facility is described as a drone base and factory.