The article reports that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have significantly degraded Hezbollah’s military capabilities, particularly by capturing the strategically important Ali al-Taher ridge in south Lebanon, a key stronghold for Hezbollah and Iran. IDF Lt. Col. (Res.) Sarit Zehavi, founder and president of the Alma Research and Education Center, states that the IDF has decimated 90% of Hezbollah’s rocket and missile arsenal, reducing its stockpile to between 10,000 and 15,000 rockets, a substantial decrease from previous levels. This degradation has effectively neutralized Hezbollah’s ability to launch a large-scale invasion of Israel, according to Zehavi.
Despite these setbacks, the article emphasizes that Hezbollah remains a persistent threat in Lebanon. Zehavi notes that Iran continues to support Hezbollah through arms smuggling, financial aid, and training, which facilitates the group’s efforts to rebuild its military capabilities. The article also highlights internal challenges for Hezbollah, including a fractured Shiite community in Lebanon and political infighting, which complicate the group’s ability to regain its former strength. Additionally, Lebanon’s Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri accuses Israel of obstructing the Lebanese army’s efforts to take control of the Ali al-Taher ridge for political reasons. The U.S. State Department asserts that while Hezbollah is currently weaker than in recent history, the group must still be disarmed and dismantled to ensure Lebanon’s stability and security. Source