Several Hezbollah fighters reportedly trapped in tunnel beneath Ali al-Taher Hill

Several Hezbollah fighters, including members of the elite Radwan force, are reportedly trapped in underground tunnels at the strategic Ali al-Taher Hill near Nabatieh, according to reports by The New York Times and Israeli media.

Cited by the Times, the Israeli occupation army claims that "thousands" of its soldiers have surrounded a "Hezbollah underground fortress beneath the hills of southern Lebanon," trapping dozens of fighters who are reportedly running out of food and water.

"We assume they are trapped and looking for a solution," a military spokesperson said, adding that they are waiting to see whether the fighters "must fight us, surrender, or wait for a change in the situation, whether it be a cease-fire or an Israeli withdrawal."

According to Israeli media, contacts are underway to secure the fighters' safe exit, but the Israeli government reportedly opposes that option and would prefer their surrender. Israel considers the incident a way to clear the tunnels and the area of Hezbollah's military infrastructure. The fighters themselves reportedly prefer to remain underground while awaiting a solution.

Underground military command center

The Israeli occupation military has been trying for several weeks to seize Ali al-Taher Hill after capturing Beaufort Castle. The hill holds both symbolic and strategic value.

Located north of the Litani River, it overlooks much of southeastern Lebanon, including Beaufort Castle and the surrounding valley, as well as the Nabatieh district and even Iqlim al-Tuffah and the Rihan Heights in the Jezzine district.

The Israeli occupation army has remained positioned around the hill since the cease-fire took effect last Saturday but has not attempted to advance farther. It has repeatedly prevented residents of nearby villages from approaching the area through strikes and gunfire.