The IDF is preparing to reduce its forces in southern Lebanon following the destruction of tunnels on the Ali al-Taher ridge, according to Itay Blumenthal (Ynet). Security sources say the defense establishment has held recent discussions on establishing a new security belt closer to the border, from which the IDF would protect residents of the confrontation line.
The IDF is moving to reduce its forces in southern Lebanon after finishing the destruction of tunnel networks on the Ali al-Taher ridge, according to security sources cited by Itay Blumenthal (Ynet). One day after capturing the Hezbollah underground fortress there – reported by The Zioneer earlier today (Sat 09:10 Jerusalem, based on analyst Amit Segal's account) – the defense establishment has also begun discussing a new security belt closer to the border, designed to protect residents of the confrontation line communities.
The shift follows months of Israeli operations in southern Lebanon, including the capture of the Ali al-Taher ridge in late May and the IDF's official map of the security zone published June 18. On July 1, Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the IDF would remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza 'until further notice,' as reported by The Zioneer. Reports from late June and early July described preparations for a long-term presence and discussions on phased withdrawals.
The new discussions about a security belt closer to the border suggest a possible move toward a more static defensive posture, but no final decision has been announced regarding its boundaries, timeline, or the extent of the force reduction. The defense establishment continues to assess operational requirements.
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