Israeli forces dynamited underground infrastructure in southern Lebanon using hundreds of tons of explosives, sparking regional condemnation and seismic tremors. The military operations follow a fragile, disputed ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States, as Lebanese leaders warn the ongoing demolitions threaten the diplomatic framework.
Massive Explosions Near the Beaufort Fortress and Southern Villages
Israeli forces carried out massive explosions around the historic Beaufort Fortress, a Crusader-era landmark that was inscribed on the UNESCO list of world heritage in danger. The operation utilized roughly 700 tons of explosives, sending shockwaves through the surrounding region in the Dead of night. Witnesses reported shattered windows in nearby villages and thick dust blanketing wooded areas.
The Lebanese National Council for Scientific Research reported that the blasts generated seismic waves equivalent to a 3.8 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale, heightening concerns among experts due to the area’s proximity to the Roum seismic fault. In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the military targeted underground tunnels in the Beaufort region following a ceasefire violation.
Further operations unfolded across southern Lebanon. The Israeli military announced the destruction of another underground infrastructure project in the Srobbin sector, executed by the 300th brigade and Yahalom engineering specialists under the 91st division. Additional raids by the Kfir and 4th brigades uncovered rocket launchers, Kalashnikov assault rifles, anti-tank rockets, and military equipment.
Ceasefire Friction and Diplomatic Fallout
The intensification of military demolition work follows a shaky security arrangement mediated by the United States. While Israeli officials stated they notified Washington in advance of a strike targeting a 200-meter tunnel in Majdal Zoun, the political fallout has been immediate.
Hezbollah criticized the Israeli actions as a blatant violation of the ceasefire that the group claims to uphold. Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem rejected the broader diplomatic agreement entirely, labeling it a surrender to Israel and vowing that the armed group would continue its resistance.
The Israeli military will remain in the security zone in southern Lebanon and will continue to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, eliminate threats targeting northern areas, and protect the security of Israel’s citizens. Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun denounced the developments as an extremely dangerous escalation and a direct threat to the framework agreement reached under American auspices. The United Nations voiced deep concern over the scale of the demolitions, warning of a devastating impact on civilian infrastructure and cultural heritage.
Regional Repercussions and Ongoing Field Operations
The unrest has left deep scars on the civilian population. More than one million Lebanese have fled their homes since the conflict escalated alongside wider regional tensions. Local reporting from southern Lebanon indicates that Israeli forces have continued controlled detonations in towns such as Deir Seriane, Talloussé, and Taybé while maintaining positions in the disputed border zone.
With Israeli leadership asserting that troops will remain in the southern security zone as long as necessary to safeguard northern communities, the future of the American-broistered security arrangement remains precarious. Diplomatic channels face mounting pressure as international observers monitor whether the fragile cessation of hostilities can survive ongoing tunnel demolitions and localized skirmishes.
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