Israel Defense Forces carried out rare ground-and-air raids in southern Lebanon on July 9, 2025, targeting Hezbollah’s weapon depots, missile launchers, tunnels, and firing positions. The operation—deemed “specialized and focused”—was triggered by intelligence confirming the restoration of Hezbollah infrastructure near the northern border.
Key targets included a weapons compound on Jabal Blat Ridge and missile storage near Labbouneh. Reservist and Galilee Division troops executed nighttime strikes to dismantle these facilities and hinder Hezbollah’s reestablishment in the area. Additionally, Israeli forces killed senior Hezbollah officer Hussein Ali Muzhir, head of firepower in the Badr unit, citing his role in planning cross-border attacks.
These operations mark Israel’s first ground raids in Lebanon since the November 2024 ceasefire, underscoring renewed determination to preempt Hezbollah’s resurgence. The move aligns with a broader strategy: persistent airstrikes, tunnel destruction, targeted assassinations, and support for Lebanese Army efforts to reclaim control in collaboration with U.S. intelligence.
This escalation comes amid regional tension: Hezbollah leaders steadfastly refuse disarmament until Israel pulls back from southern Lebanon, despite widespread disarmament progress south of the Litani River and mounting pressure from Lebanese and U.S. officials. The international community monitors closely as the dynamics in southern Lebanon could determine future stability along the border.
