IDF finds Hezbollah weapons cache in underground tunnel: video

Israeli troops have successfully located and destroyed a massive underground tunnel that was being used by Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces as a terrorist hideout, the IDF announced on Saturday. The tunnel, which was more than 300 feet long, was discovered during operations in southern Lebanon as part of the IDF’s efforts to prevent weapons from falling into the hands of Hezbollah.

The Yahalom Unit, with the assistance of the IDF, investigated and cleared the tunnel route of explosives and threats. Inside the tunnel, troops found rifles, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and observation systems, all of which were confiscated and destroyed along with the tunnel itself.

Furthermore, an anti-tank missile stockpile and heavy machine gun positions aimed at IDF posts were also uncovered in the vicinity of the tunnel. The tunnel route was connected to a Hezbollah command center that housed rockets used to attack Israel during the war, as well as a large number of explosives.

In response to the discovery, the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) called for Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon, citing violations of a ceasefire agreement with Iran-backed Hezbollah. The agreement, brokered by the U.S., calls for Hezbollah fighters to leave positions in south Lebanon and move north of the Litani River, while Israel withdraws from the south.

UNIFIL expressed concern over the destruction of residential areas, farmland, and infrastructure in south Lebanon by Israeli forces. The organization urged the timely withdrawal of the IDF and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces in southern Lebanon in accordance with Resolution 1701 for a comprehensive path toward peace.

The ceasefire arrangement allows for a 60-day period for Israeli forces to pull out of south Lebanon, during which neither side can launch offensive operations. Lebanon’s army is working with UNIFIL and the ceasefire supervisory committee to address Israel’s continued operations in southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL will continue to monitor the area south of the Litani River to ensure it remains free of armed personnel and weapons, except those belonging to the Lebanese government and UNIFIL. The IDF has not yet responded to UNIFIL’s criticism, but Reuters reported that the Israeli military is looking into the matter.

This development underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the delicate balance required to maintain peace. The IDF’s efforts to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and prevent attacks on Israel are crucial for regional stability and security.