The Israeli Defense Forces conducted a series of airstrikes and targeted operations against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon and Beirut on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The actions come as part of intensified efforts to dismantle the Iran-backed group's military capabilities following repeated ceasefire breaches.

According to reports, the IDF eliminated Ali Yusuf Harshi, the personal secretary and nephew of Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem, in a strike in Beirut. Additional strikes hit weapons storage sites and border crossings used by the militant group. These operations build on recent successes, including the destruction of a major underground Hezbollah command complex beneath the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon earlier in September.

Israeli forces used over 1,100 tons of explosives to demolish more than two kilometers of tunnels at the strategic site, which had served as a base for Hezbollah's Badr unit. The complex housed rockets, missiles, drones, and other weaponry. The IDF described it as Iranian-funded infrastructure built over two decades.

The June 2026 U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has frayed significantly, with Hezbollah launching drone attacks and maintaining positions near the border. Israel has responded by expanding operations in a security zone to protect northern communities from threats. Hezbollah, designated a terrorist organization by the United States and others, continues to receive support from Iran despite the truce.

Lebanese officials reported additional casualties from the latest exchanges, while Israel maintains that its actions target only militant infrastructure and operatives. The conflict, which reignited earlier in 2026, has seen Israel seize and clear key ridges after months of fighting.

These strikes underscore Israel's commitment to neutralizing Hezbollah's offensive capabilities and enforcing security along its northern border. Further operations are expected as the military works to prevent future attacks from the group.