The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the discovery and destruction of a substantial underground tunnel system utilized by Hezbollah to stockpile weapons in southern Lebanon. The tunnel, exceeding 300 feet in length, served as a clandestine base for Hezbollah's Radwan Forces.

This discovery comes amidst ongoing IDF operations in southern Lebanon aimed at disrupting the flow of weaponry to Hezbollah. These operations follow a recent ceasefire agreement reached after over a year of conflict between Israel and the militant group.

Within the tunnel, IDF troops, aided by the Yahalom Unit, unearthed an arsenal that included rifles, machine guns, anti-tank missiles, and surveillance equipment. The IDF confirmed the confiscation and subsequent destruction of all discovered weaponry, as well as the tunnel itself.

Further investigation in the tunnel's vicinity revealed a stockpile of anti-tank missiles and strategically positioned heavy machine guns targeting IDF positions. The IDF also linked the tunnel to a Hezbollah command center containing rockets used in attacks against Israel, along with a significant quantity of explosives.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has urged Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon, alleging violations of the November 27th ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. This ceasefire, brokered by the United States, stipulates a phased Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah's relocation north of the Litani River, echoing the terms of the 2006 U.N. Security Council resolution.

UNIFIL has expressed concern over the reported destruction of civilian infrastructure in southern Lebanon by Israeli forces. They advocate for the full implementation of Resolution 1701 as a pathway to peace, emphasizing the Lebanese Armed Forces' deployment in the south alongside the IDF's withdrawal. The Israeli military is reportedly reviewing UNIFIL's criticisms.

The ceasefire agreement grants Israeli forces up to 60 days for withdrawal, prohibiting offensive actions by both sides during this period. The Lebanese army is reportedly coordinating with UNIFIL and the ceasefire supervisory committee regarding Israel's ongoing operations in southern Lebanon.

UNIFIL continues its monitoring efforts south of the Litani River, aiming to maintain the area free of unauthorized armed presence and weaponry, with exceptions for the Lebanese government and UNIFIL forces.