Lebanese Army Battles to Disarm Hezbollah in Tense Border Region
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Deep within southern Lebanon's rugged terrain, a secretive cave complex has been discovered, offering a glimpse into the extensive underground infrastructure Hezbollah relied on along the Israeli border. The Lebanese army, deployed in the area since last year's ceasefire, is working to dismantle the group's fortifications and disarm its members. The cave complex, stretching approximately 100 meters in length, features electrical power and ventilated shafts, likely serving as a command center. Abandoned equipment, including first-aid kits and military jackets, has been found within the site. The Lebanese army has already confiscated weapons from the location. A group of journalists, embedded with the army, was given a rare tour of the Hezbollah position. Since the ceasefire, the military has deployed over 10,000 troops to the region, sweeping through the countryside to locate and seize weapons, command centers, and infrastructure belonging to the Iran-backed group. According to General Nicholas Tabet, overseeing the operation, there is no evidence of Hezbollah smuggling weapons into the area since the army's deployment. However, the land remains saturated with combat equipment and arms. The army has seized over 230,000 items, including weapons, ammunition, rocket launchers, and missiles, during search operations over the past year. Lebanon, under US pressure, aims to disarm Hezbollah, which has resisted government pressure and refused to lay down its arms. Tensions are high as Israel has continued to strike Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah, which has been accused of rearming. The group's top military commander was assassinated by Israel on Sunday, sparking fears of another war. Hezbollah has reserved the right to respond at a time of its choosing. As the Lebanese army works to complete its mission, a military spokesman revealed that confiscated weapons and ammunition are stored in secure warehouses for later destruction. Usable items are added to the military's stockpiles for potential future use. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon has reported over 10,000 truce violations in the past year, including air and ground breaches. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has warned of 'no calm' in Lebanon unless Israel's security is guaranteed.
