Israel Destroys Hezbollah Tunnels Under Lebanon Ridge
Israel said Thursday it destroyed tunnels built by Hezbollah. The tunnels were beneath the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon.
Israel said this completed its operational control of the area. The ridge is a strategic site about 15 kilometers from Israel's border.
Israel had worked for months to gain control of the ridge. Israel said its forces will stay there.
This is meant to stop Hezbollah from rebuilding the tunnels. Reports say the tunnels included command rooms, weapons stores and living quarters.
Lebanon reported a large explosion in the region. The US Geological Survey recorded a magnitude 4.1 tremor nearby.
Klear Note — Operational control means Israel says its forces can hold the area. Underground tunnels can help armed groups move and store weapons secretly.
Key Terms 3
- Hezbollah An armed group in Lebanon backed by Iran.
- Ali al-Taher ridge A hillside area in southern Lebanon near Israel's border.
- US Geological Survey A US agency that tracks earthquakes worldwide.