Israeli Army Highlights Strategic Role of Shqif Fortress in Lebanon Operations Against Hezbollah

Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, while approving operational plans in Lebanon, stated that "the Lebanese arena remains our primary focus, but we are also preparing for potential developments in other theaters."

Addressing commanders of brigades and divisions at the Northern Command, Zamir said, "We are closely monitoring the situation with a high level of alertness and readiness across all fronts. The current reality is sensitive and complex. The entire Defense Forces are determined, vigilant, and ready, operating at varying levels of force across different arenas. At present, Lebanon is our main center of gravity, yet we are preparing for possible developments elsewhere."

Regarding the recent operation at the Bufor area, also known as the Shqif Fortress, Zamir described it as "of critical operational importance, serving the battle’s objectives by deepening the operational gains against Hezbollah. The operation aims to deprive Hezbollah of its underground infrastructure capabilities, command and control systems, and firing capacities developed over many years. The findings, both above and below ground, highlight the significance of the uncovered infrastructure and the central role of the Bufor area and Ali Al-Taher hill for the organization in its efforts to fortify positions and target residents of the northern region."

Zamir added, "Hezbollah has brought disaster upon the Lebanese state and the Shiite community, a fact well understood by Lebanese citizens. All villages in southern Lebanon have become an intricate network of terrorist infrastructure."

He further noted, "Our forces on the ground operate with operational superiority and receive unlimited fire support from land and air. We continue to act proactively and offensively, deepening maneuvering where necessary, strengthening defense, and eliminating threats to the northern region’s population. Our efforts in Lebanon also focus on reinforcing the defense of northern towns and intensifying the strike against Hezbollah through ground maneuvers and coordinated fire."

Concluding, Zamir affirmed, "Every additional operational achievement we secure will lead to the continued attrition and fragmentation of Hezbollah’s southern front and improve security arrangements that will be determined within the negotiations between the political level and the Lebanese government."