By DAYO ADESULU
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the successful capture and operational control of the Beaufort Ridge and Wadi Saluki area in southern Lebanon, describing the development as a major blow to Hezbollah’s military infrastructure.
Speaking during a visit to the Northern Command, IDF Spokesperson, , said troops of the 36th Division completed a large-scale operation that resulted in the seizure of what Israel considers one of Hezbollah’s most important strategic positions.
According to Defrin, the operation was carefully planned over an extended period and received approval from the Chief of the General Staff after extensive operational preparations.
“The troops of the 36th Division now possess operational control of the Beaufort Ridge,” Defrin stated. “Control of the Beaufort Ridge carries important operational significance. It is a key geographic asset of Hezbollah and serves as a central hub for the terrorist organization.”
The IDF claimed that Hezbollah used the area to direct rocket fire and conduct surveillance operations against Israeli communities in the Galilee Panhandle and the border town of .
Military officials further alleged that more than 400 projectiles had been launched from the Beaufort Ridge area since the start of Israel’s ongoing military campaign, known as .
Defrin said the ridge housed extensive military infrastructure developed with Iranian support, including command-and-control facilities located both above and below ground.
“The infrastructure built by Hezbollah is Iranian infrastructure, serving as a significant command and control center both above and below ground,” he said. “We are pushing back Hezbollah’s capabilities and continuing to further the damage inflicted on it.”
Two Israeli Soldiers Killed During Operation
The operation came at a heavy cost for Israeli forces, with the IDF confirming the deaths of two soldiers during combat operations on the ridge.
The fallen soldiers were identified as , 21, from Ashkelon, who served in the Givati Reconnaissance Unit, and , 20, from Rosh HaAyin, a member of the Maglan Unit.
Defrin said both soldiers were killed while fighting to defend communities in northern Israel.
“I share in the families’ grief. We embrace them and will continue to stand by them,” he said.
IDF Vows Continued Operations Against Hezbollah
The IDF spokesperson also revealed that he had visited wounded soldiers receiving treatment at , praising both the injured troops and the medical teams caring for them.
He reiterated Israel’s objectives in the conflict, including protecting northern communities, reducing Hezbollah’s military capabilities, and addressing the growing threat posed by drones.
Defrin said the Israeli military leadership is actively pursuing new technologies and operational methods to counter drone attacks, with the Chief of the General Staff personally overseeing efforts to develop additional solutions.
Addressing residents of northern Israel, he urged continued vigilance and adherence to safety instructions issued by authorities.
“The IDF is with you, and we are acting on your behalf both on the front line and on the home front,” he said.
He added that Israeli forces would continue targeting Hezbollah infrastructure across Lebanon, including areas stretching from Dahieh in Beirut’s southern suburbs to the coastal city of .
“Wherever there is a threat to Israeli civilians and to IDF troops, we will act to remove it,” Defrin stated.
