IDF Demolishes Hezbollah Tunnel Network Under Southern Lebanon Ridge Using Over 1,100 Tons of Explosives

TEL AVIV — The Israel Defense Forces deployed more than 1,100 tons of explosives on Wednesday to demolish an extensive network of tunnels operated by Hezbollah beneath the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon. The massive demolition operation, announced late in the day, marks one of the largest single uses of high explosives in the region during the ongoing conflict.

The IDF stated that the tunnels were located deep within the mountainous terrain of the Ali Taher Ridge, a strategic area bordering Israel. Military officials confirmed that the explosives were detonated to collapse the underground infrastructure, which they described as a critical logistical and operational asset for the Lebanese militant group. The operation was executed without prior public warning, resulting in significant seismic activity felt across the border region.

Hezbollah has not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the specific extent of the damage or casualties resulting from the blast. The group has historically maintained that its tunnel network serves as a defensive shield and a means to move fighters and supplies undetected. Previous conflicts in the area have shown that such subterranean systems are often reinforced with concrete and designed to withstand conventional aerial bombardment, necessitating the use of massive quantities of explosives for total destruction.

The Ali Taher Ridge has long been a focal point of military activity due to its elevation and proximity to Israeli communities. Control of the high ground allows for observation of movement in the border valley and provides cover for artillery positions. The removal of the tunnel network is intended to degrade Hezbollah's ability to launch surprise attacks or reposition forces rapidly in this sector.

Local residents in southern Lebanon reported hearing a series of powerful explosions that shook buildings and caused minor structural damage in nearby villages. Emergency services were deployed to assess the situation, though no immediate reports of civilian casualties have emerged from the initial blast zone. The area remains under heavy military restriction, limiting access for journalists and humanitarian workers.

Questions remain regarding the full scope of the tunnel system and whether the demolition was total. Military analysts note that while surface-level collapse is evident, verifying the complete destruction of deep underground chambers often requires extensive follow-up operations. The IDF has not specified if further engineering assessments or additional strikes are planned for the site.

The operation comes as tensions remain high along the northern border, with both sides continuing to exchange fire in sporadic clashes. The use of such a large volume of explosives signals a shift in tactics aimed at permanently altering the terrain and neutralizing entrenched military assets rather than engaging in direct combat. As night falls over the ridge, the extent of the structural changes and the strategic implications for future operations remain to be fully assessed.