IDF says Hezbollah’s Ali Taher ridge cleared as terrorists killed or fled

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Thursday that it has completed the clearing of underground infrastructure on Lebanon’s Ali Taher ridge and is currently neutralizing the facilities. According to the military, troops from the 36th Division have gained operational control both above and below ground in recent weeks. The IDF stated that some Hezbollah operatives were killed during the operation, while others fled. Troops reportedly discovered underground command centers, weapons storage, living quarters, and kitchens, which the military described as strategic infrastructure built over two decades with Iranian funding and planning. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that a great many terrorists were eliminated in the area. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Iran warned the United States last month that it would respond forcefully to a comprehensive Israeli attack on the ridge, claiming Iranian personnel were trapped there. Israeli security officials have disputed the Iranian claim, stating that no Iranian personnel are present in the area.