IDF details demolition of Hezbollah's Ali Taher Ridge tunnel network; 1,100 tons of explosives used

The demolition of the Ali Taher Ridge infrastructure marks a critical phase in the IDF's systematic dismantling of Hezbollah's subterranean military architecture. According to the military, the operation was carried out by forces from Division 36, the Commando Brigade, and the elite Yahalom combat engineering unit. The network, which reached depths of up to 50 meters into solid rock, was designed to facilitate large-scale offensive operations against northern Israel.

Strategic Scope and Engineering Effort

The scale of the destruction—requiring 1,100 tons of explosives—underscores the density and fortification of the site. The IDF reported that the complex comprised eight distinct tunnel routes spanning 5,400 meters. This facility served as the regional command post for Hezbollah's Badr Unit, which is responsible for the sector between the Litani River and the Israeli border.

As The Zioneer reported earlier, the Ali Taher Ridge is a dominant high-ground feature overlooking the city of Nabatieh, a major logistical hub for Hezbollah. The underground fortress was equipped with advanced communication systems, command rooms, and living quarters, intended to coordinate elite Radwan forces during a planned invasion of the Galilee. The military noted that the site provided direct observation and fire coverage over Israeli communities such as Metula and Kiryat Shmona.

Context of the Operation

The neutralization follows weeks of operational control by Israeli forces. In August, as documented in prior reports by The Zioneer, elite units including Maglan captured the site after a prolonged siege that included cutting supply lines to entrenched operatives. The current demolition represents the final stage of rendering this strategic asset unusable.

This operation follows similar large-scale demolitions in the sector, including the destruction of a tunnel network beneath the nearby Beaufort Ridge in late July, which required 700 tons of explosives. The military stated that these infrastructures were built over two decades with direct Iranian planning and funding, serving as the backbone of Hezbollah's "Imad 4" missile city and artillery command nodes.

Security Outlook

With the completion of this demolition, Israeli security officials indicated that the military is transitioning to a defensive posture in the sector, aimed at maintaining a security zone that prevents Hezbollah from re-establishing a presence along the border. The IDF emphasized that it remains prepared for various scenarios, including multi-front escalations, and will continue to act against any attempts by Hezbollah to advance terror plots against Israeli civilians. The Zioneer will continue to follow official updates as the IDF completes its reorganization of the security space in southern Lebanon.