The IDF is preparing to reduce its troop presence in southern Lebanon and establish a new security line closer to the Israeli border, following the destruction of Hezbollah's tunnel network on the strategic Ali Taher ridge, according to The Zioneer.
The Zioneer reported Saturday morning that the IDF has destroyed Hezbollah's extensive tunnel network on the strategic Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. The demolition of the underground complex, which served as a command and logistics hub overlooking the city of Nabatieh, clears the way for a planned reduction of Israeli forces and the establishment of a new security line closer to the Israeli border, as the IDF transitions from a deep buffer zone to a more compact defensive posture.
The operation to dismantle the Ali Taher ridge tunnel network unfolded over several weeks. On August 11, The Zioneer reported that the IDF had tightened a siege on Hezbollah operatives trapped in the ridge, cutting water and supply lines. On August 19, The Zioneer reported that IDF commando and Maglan forces captured the underground network, which intelligence indicated was designed to coordinate an October 7-style invasion of the Galilee. On August 21, reports emerged that Israeli forces had eliminated dozens of Hezbollah and IRGC operatives in covert operations on the ridge. On Saturday, The Zioneer confirmed that the IDF had destroyed the tunnels using hundreds of tons of explosives, and that the defense establishment is now discussing force reduction and a new security belt closer to the border.
The ridge has been a focal point of Israeli operations in southern Lebanon. As The Zioneer reported on July 5, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir conducted a situational assessment at the nearby Beaufort Ridge and described Hezbollah as an 'exhausted and defeated' force that had lost every direct encounter with the IDF. The destruction of the Ali Taher tunnels is seen as a major operational achievement that significantly degrades Hezbollah's ability to threaten northern Israel. A Lebanese political source opposed to Hezbollah described the destruction as 'a military and image blow' for the organization.
The IDF has not officially commented on the planned redeployment or its timeline. The situation on the northern border remains dynamic, with Israel continuing to enforce ceasefire terms and respond to Hezbollah violations. The exact border of the new security line and the scope of the force reduction have yet to be finalized.
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