Katz: No Lebanon Exit Until Hezbollah Disarmed

The defense minister emphasized the strategic importance of the captured tunnel complex. "The Ali Taher tunnels served as a command center for attacks on our forces and the Galilee region, and simultaneously functioned as the last dominant position defending the Nabatieh area—so important to Hezbollah—hence their strategic significance," Katz stated.

Katz revealed that IDF forces operated under extremely difficult terrain conditions during both offensive and defensive phases of the operation. He said he closely monitored the ridge operation, including direct contact with forces on the ground, and expressed deep appreciation for their commitment to the mission. The minister added that he imposed heavy restrictions on publicizing operational details out of concern for the fighters' safety.

Media reports describe the Ali Taher ridge as rising approximately 700 meters at its peak near Beaufort, creating a distinct geographical barrier between the Litani River basin to the east and the Nabatieh plateau to the west. The ridge's strategic value lies in its commanding view and range over all traffic arteries and access routes to Nabatieh, which is why Hezbollah established its command position there.

Katz praised the determination of IDF command and the courage of the soldiers, stating: "In a complex and systematic operation, the mission was completed and the tunnels were cleared of terrorists." He said the IDF would now complete neutralization of the tunnels and establish appropriate tactical positions on the ridge to prevent the enemy from re-establishing itself in the area.

In his statement, the defense minister added: "Prime Minister Netanyahu and I are leading a clear and uncompromising line, implemented daily by the IDF: Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout all of Lebanon and the threats against Galilee residents are removed."

Katz concluded by noting that "the capture of Ali Taher is an important step in achieving this goal." The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions along the northern border, as the IDF continues determined efforts to complete the destruction of Hezbollah's terror infrastructure in the security zone.

Separately, the IDF reported that it eliminated Abu Hassan Alaa, a senior commander in Hezbollah's "Badr" unit, in the Dir al-Zahrani area. The strike was carried out in response to terrorist activity against forces operating in the security zone, with the commander having participated in advancing terror operations including launching explosive drones at IDF forces in southern Lebanon.

IDF Chief of Staff visited southern Lebanon and stated: "We are prepared for any change in the situation. In Lebanon we have captured territories and we are clearing them of terror infrastructure. If required, we will deepen operations and reach additional areas. The IDF is responsible for security, and we will not withdraw from the territories we captured until long-term security is assured."

As part of the operation, engineering and assault forces neutralized and completely destroyed fortified compounds that had been concealed for years. Extensive sections of the underground infrastructure were blown up, with Israeli security officials identifying heavy losses and the deaths of numerous terrorists who were inside the tunnels. This was achieved by using gradual pressure escalation to minimize danger to IDF soldiers.