IDF uncovers Hezbollah's hidden mountain drone factory and launch site in Lebanon
The Israeli military has reportedly discovered a sophisticated, underground Hezbollah drone factory and launch site concealed within a mountain in southern Lebanon. The facility, allegedly built with Iranian assistance, contained numerous Iranian-made explosive drones and a significant quantity of explosive material. This discovery comes amidst ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Key Highlights
- IDF claims discovery of underground Hezbollah drone facility in south Lebanon.
- Facility allegedly built with Iranian support and contained numerous drones.
- Subterranean site includes blast doors and launch shafts.
- Discovery made during ground operations in southern Lebanon.
- Hezbollah's drone capabilities are a significant concern for Israel.
The Times of Israel has reported the discovery of a substantial underground facility in southern Lebanon, identified by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as a Hezbollah drone factory and launch site. Located within a mountain near the village of Majdal Zoun, close to the Israeli border, the subterranean complex was allegedly constructed over the past decade with direct assistance from Iran, including planning and funding. Israeli military officials provided a media tour of the site, emphasizing its advanced construction, which included robust steel blast doors and tunnels extending deep into the mountain.
The IDF stated that the facility housed approximately 50 Iranian-made explosive unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and around eight tons of explosive material. These drones are described as capable of flying between 200 to 500 kilometers, posing a threat to the entirety of Israel. The military officials noted that the drones appeared to be of the same type used in previous attacks on Israel, identifying them as an Iranian design known as the Qasef. The capture of the tunnel reportedly provided the IDF with intact Iranian drones, offering valuable intelligence.
According to the IDF, the site had previously been targeted by Israeli airstrikes during the 2024 war with Hezbollah to disable it. However, the military claims that Hezbollah subsequently attempted to restore the facility. Israeli troops reportedly captured the site during ground operations in southern Lebanon following hostilities that escalated in early March. The subterranean facility was reportedly built to a high standard, comparable to an underground Iranian missile factory previously raided in Syria. Journalists were brought to the site under the cover of darkness to mitigate the risk of Hezbollah attacks.
The discovery highlights the persistent and evolving threat posed by Hezbollah's drone program, which has been a significant concern for Israel. Previous reports indicate that Israel has conducted strikes on alleged Hezbollah drone production and storage facilities in both Beirut and southern Lebanon in June 2025 and prior, citing violations of ceasefire understandings and the continued development of drone capabilities with Iranian support. Hezbollah itself has showcased its domestic drone manufacturing capabilities in videos, asserting self-sufficiency despite Israeli efforts to weaken the group. The ongoing conflict and these discoveries underscore the complex and volatile security situation between Israel and Hezbollah, with implications for regional stability.
The Times of Israel, the source of the report, is generally considered a reliable news outlet, though some analyses suggest a slight left-leaning bias in its editorial positions. Its reporting on the conflict often focuses on Israeli military perspectives. The current events are part of a broader pattern of escalating tensions and cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah, which have intensified in recent months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the IDF claim to have discovered in southern Lebanon?
The IDF claimed to have discovered a large, underground Hezbollah drone factory and launch site hidden within a mountain in southern Lebanon. They reported finding approximately 50 Iranian-made explosive drones and about eight tons of explosive material.
What role did Iran allegedly play in this facility?
Israeli military officials claim that the subterranean facility was built with direct Iranian assistance, including planning and funding, over the past decade.
Why is this discovery significant?
The discovery is significant because it highlights the advanced capabilities and hidden infrastructure of Hezbollah's drone program, which poses a substantial threat to Israel's security. It also suggests continued Iranian support for Hezbollah's military development.
Has Israel targeted Hezbollah drone facilities before?
Yes, Israel has previously conducted airstrikes on alleged Hezbollah drone production and storage facilities in both Beirut and southern Lebanon, citing violations of ceasefire agreements and the development of drone capabilities with Iranian support.