IDF claims to dismantle key Hezbollah tunnel network beneath Beaufort Ridge
Tel Aviv, July 31
The Israel Defense Forces on Friday said that it dismantled several key underground tunnels beneath the Beaufort Ridge in southern Lebanon during a "limited activity" in the area of the security zone, as US-brokered Israel-Lebanon talks are set to resume in Rome in August.
The IDF said the tunnel network served as a central command centre for Hezbollah, from where its commanders managed combat operations and directed fire toward Israeli troops and civilians.
According to the IDF, the underground network consisted of several levels and had been constructed over two decades. The IDF also said that it served as a central command centre for Hezbollah's Bader Unit in southern Lebanon and was "planned and funded by the Iranian terrorist regime."
The IDF said the network posed a threat to northern Israel as it was located approximately six kilometres from Metula and the Galilee Panhandle.
"Over the course of the war, dozens of UAVs, explosive devices, and anti-tank missiles were launched from this infrastructure toward Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers," the IDF said.
"Tonight, the IDF dismantled a significant portion of the underground tunnel network," it added.
The Israeli military said its forces had completed their deployment in the Beaufort Ridge area over the past several weeks while maintaining operational control of the underground tunnel network and preparing it for dismantling.
"IDF soldiers continue to operate in the area of Ali Taher Ridge, remain on high alert, and are prepared for both defensive and offensive scenarios. Attacks on IDF soldiers will be responded to accordingly," the IDF said.
The military also said it remained committed to the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon while continuing operations aimed at removing threats to its forces.
The development comes as Israel and Lebanon prepare for the next round of US-brokered talks, which are scheduled to take place in Rome from August 4 to August 6, according to a July 27 report by The Times of Israel citing the US State Department.
Technical teams from both sides are expected to focus on implementing the framework agreement signed by Israel and Lebanon last month, including expanding the pilot zone process, resolving outstanding border issues and working towards a broader peace and security agreement.
"That includes expanding the pilot zone process, resolving all outstanding border issues, and working on a comprehensive peace and security agreement," a statement attributed to a State Department official said.
The agreement calls for the Lebanese military to deploy in areas of southern Lebanon where Hezbollah previously maintained military presence and influence, while Israel is expected to withdraw from its declared security zone in the south, contingent on Hezbollah's disarmament.
The IDF carried out its first withdrawal from a pilot zone in southern Lebanon last week. Beirut has since accused Israel of hampering efforts by the Lebanese Armed Forces to operate in the area.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The IDF claims to dismantle tunnels, but this conflict has been going on for decades. It's a cycle of violence - tunnels built, tunnels destroyed, more attacks, more bombings. I just hope innocent civilians on both sides aren't paying the price for these geopolitical games. The ceasefire agreement needs to hold.
Seems like a significant military achievement for Israel. Those tunnels were clearly a strategic asset for Hezbollah. Removing that threat from the border region is important for the safety of Israeli citizens. Let's see if the talks in Rome can actually produce something concrete.
India has deep historical ties with both Israel and Lebanon. We understand the security concerns, but the Iranian angle worries me. This has become a proxy battlefield for larger powers. The international community needs to step up more seriously for a two-state solution or broader regional peace framework. Otherwise, it's just a matter of time before the next round of violence starts.
While this is a tactical win for Israel, I'm concerned about the long-term implications. Disarming Hezbollah is essential for any lasting peace, but the Lebanese government needs to have full control of its territory. Otherwise, the next group will just rebuild those tunnels. The Rome talks need to address the root causes, not just the symptoms.
From an Indian perspective, we've always emphasized peaceful resolution of conflicts. But one must also understand Israel's security dilemma - those tunnels were built to attack civilians. At the same time, a lasting solution must include disarmament of all non-state actors and a clear framework for border demarcation. Let's hope the US-brokered talks yield more than just promises. 🙏
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