The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced a series of military developments involving operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and Hamas operatives in the Gaza Strip, saying its forces responded to a drone attack, eliminated senior militant figures, and uncovered a large cache of weapons allegedly hidden within civilian infrastructure.
Hezbollah Drone Attack Described as Ceasefire Breach
According to the IDF, Hezbollah launched an explosive drone toward an Israeli engineering vehicle operating near the Ali al-Taher Ridge inside the designated security zone.
Israeli military officials described the incident as a “blatant ceasefire violation,” stating that troops remain active in the area and will continue operations aimed at preventing Hezbollah fighters from regrouping or carrying out attacks against Israeli forces stationed along the border.
Israeli Troops Continue Operations in Security Zone
The military said its forces are maintaining a presence around the ridge despite the reported drone strike, emphasizing that operations are focused on neutralizing threats and denying armed groups the ability to establish positions near Israeli troops.
The IDF indicated that security activities in the area will continue as part of ongoing efforts to counter cross-border attacks and maintain operational control within the security zone.
Weapons Cache Allegedly Hidden Among Civilian Infrastructure
In a separate operational update, the IDF said soldiers operating in the Majdal Zoun area discovered what it described as a significant stockpile of weapons concealed within civilian infrastructure.
According to the military, the cache included Kalashnikov assault rifles, ammunition magazines, grenades, explosives, improvised explosive devices, anti-tank missiles, and mortar shells.
The IDF also reported dismantling several structures that it alleged had been used by Hezbollah during its operations in the area.
Hamas Platoon Commander and Sniper Leader Killed
The Israeli military also announced the killing of two Hamas commanders during operations in Gaza.
The IDF identified one of those killed as Mahmoud Ali Mahmoud Taroush, whom it described as a platoon commander in Hamas’ military wing. Israeli officials allege Taroush participated in the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
The second militant was identified as Ahmad Hisham Mahmoud Louh, whom the IDF said served as the final sniper cell commander in Hamas’ Nuseirat Battalion.
IDF Says Operation Targets Remaining Sniper Leadership
Israeli officials stated that Louh’s death forms part of an ongoing campaign targeting Hamas sniper units operating within the Nuseirat Battalion.
According to the IDF, the latest strike continues a broader series of operations aimed at dismantling the battalion’s sniper command structure and reducing Hamas’ operational capabilities in the central Gaza Strip.
Military Campaign Continues on Multiple Fronts
The announcements reflect Israel’s continued military operations across both the Lebanese and Gaza fronts, where the IDF says it is working to disrupt armed groups, destroy weapons stockpiles, and prevent future attacks against Israeli forces.
The statements were issued by the Israeli military and could not be independently verified. Hezbollah and Hamas had not publicly responded to the specific claims at the time of the announcement.