A major Hezbollah tunnel blast in southern Lebanon sent shockwaves across Nabatieh after Israeli forces detonated explosives beneath the Ali al-Taher ridge. The operation destroyed underground infrastructure that Israel said had been used by Hezbollah for command, weapons storage and attacks near the border.
Ali Taher blast shakes southern Lebanon
The Ali Taher blast took place on September 10 after the Israel Defense Forces said troops had secured the ridge and completed preparations to destroy underground routes. The IDF said the demolition targeted a tunnel network more than two kilometres long and involved a large quantity of explosives. Residents in nearby communities reported loud blasts and strong ground movement, while shaking was also felt farther north toward Sidon.
Lebanon blast registers seismic shock
The Lebanon blast produced a seismic signal recorded at about magnitude 4.1 near Nabatieh, according to the US Geological Survey. Lebanon’s National Center for Geophysics also said the waves generated by the explosion were comparable to a moderate earthquake. Seismologists said the event was caused by the detonation rather than natural fault movement. The proximity of the Roum fault nevertheless drew attention because it is one of Lebanon’s important geological structures.
IDF tunnels operation targets underground network
The IDF tunnels operation focused on facilities that the Israeli military said contained command rooms, weapons storage areas, living quarters and launch positions. Israeli officials said rockets, missiles, drones, anti-tank weapons and other arms were found inside the underground system. The military said parts of the network had been developed over about two decades with Iranian funding and planning.
Hezbollah hub described as command complex
Israel described the site as a Hezbollah hub linked to the group’s Badr unit and said it had supported operations against northern Israel and Israeli forces. The military said the broader infrastructure around Ali al-Taher included several underground routes built for extended stays, logistics and weapons activity. Hezbollah had not immediately issued a detailed response to all of Israel’s claims about the facility.
Border war tensions rise ahead of talks
The border war remains a major concern for civilians across southern Lebanon, where repeated strikes, evacuations and military activity have caused displacement and damage. The scale of the demolition added to fears in communities near Nabatieh.
The operation comes as diplomatic efforts continue over security arrangements between Lebanon and Israel. International mediators are seeking measures that could reduce cross-border attacks and stabilize the south, but major disagreements remain. The destruction of the Ali al-Taher network may weaken Hezbollah’s local underground capability, but continued military activity means the risk of further escalation remains high.
