IDF hits Hezbollah terrorists, infrastructure after drone launched at soldiers

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted retaliatory strikes against Hezbollah targets in Southern Lebanon overnight Friday after a drone was launched at Israeli soldiers in the security zone. The IDF stated that soldiers downed the UAV, and no injuries were reported. The strikes targeted weapon storage facilities intended for attacks on IDF soldiers and Israeli civilians. Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated Israel's policy, stating, "Israel will not withdraw from the security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is disarmed throughout Lebanon and the threats to the residents of the Galilee are removed." He also noted the IDF's capture of the Ali al-Taher Ridge, which contained Hezbollah command-and-control tunnels. Additionally, Israel released five Lebanese detainees as part of ongoing U.S.-mediated negotiations, with the International Committee of the Red Cross facilitating the transfer.