Hezbollah tunnels
Hezbollah's underground tunnels (Arabic: أنفاق حزب الله) refer to an extensive network of underground passages[1] used by Hezbollah, primarily in southern Lebanon, along the Lebanon-Israel border[2]. These tunnels are often used for military purposes, such as smuggling weapons, storing supplies[1], and allowing fighters to move discreetly.
The tunnels have been a significant concern for Israel, which views them as a direct security threat[3]. Hezbollah has invested significantly in tunnel construction, particularly since the 2006 Lebanon War. Israel has conducted operations to locate and destroy these tunnels[4], viewing them as a significant threat to its security.
Operation Northern Shield
[edit]In December 2018, Israel launched "Operation Northern Shield" to detect and destroy these tunnels[5]. In recent years, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have found and destroyed several tunnels crossing the border from Lebanon into Israel[5][6].
Purposes
[edit]These tunnels serve various purposes, including:
- Military Operations: They allow Hezbollah fighters to move undetected and launch surprise attacks against Israeli forces.
- Smuggling: The tunnels are used for smuggling weapons and supplies, often circumventing Israeli surveillance.
- Shelter: They provide protection for fighters during airstrikes or ground operations.
- Logistics: The network facilitates communication and transportation of goods and personnel.
UN involvement
[edit]The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been involved in monitoring the situation[5]. They have confirmed the existence of tunnels[5] and have been working with both sides to maintain the fragile peace along the border.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Nashed, Mat. "Hezbollah's tunnel video threatens enemies but leaves much unknown". Al Jazeera. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ^ Dov Lieber. "Israeli Special Forces Launch Raids Into Lebanon Ahead of Expected Ground Incursion".
- ^ "What do we know about Hezbollah's tunnels?". France 24. 2024-08-22. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ^ ToI Staff. "Troops said to enter Hezbollah tunnels with pre-invasion forays into Lebanon". The Times of Israel.
- ^ a b c d IDF Editorial Team. "Operation Northern Shield". www.idf.il. Retrieved 2024-10-02.
- ^ Loveday Morris and Ruth Eglash. "Israel announces operation to destroy Hezbollah tunnels under its northern border". Washington Post.