Jerusalem – Israeli forces destroyed Hezbollah's largest and most strategic precision-guided missile production facility in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley in November 2024, just hours before a ceasefire with the militant group came into effect. The extensive underground complex, located near the Syrian border in the Janta area, was a cornerstone of Hezbollah's efforts to domestically produce advanced weaponry with significant Iranian support. The operation dealt a substantial blow to the organization's long-term military capabilities.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strike, describing the facility as Hezbollah’s largest precision-guided missile production site, spanning 1.4 kilometers and extending 70 meters underground. IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stated that the site was used to manufacture surface-to-surface missiles and other components, and also served as a storage location for guided missiles. Israeli fighter jets reportedly pounded the location for over four hours, targeting the complex and surrounding areas, including a central Hezbollah Radwan Force base.
The missile manufacturing plant had been constructed over several years with direct assistance from Iran, with Iranian operatives reportedly working alongside Hezbollah at the facility. This destruction is part of Israel's ongoing efforts to disrupt Iran's supply of advanced weaponry to Hezbollah and to prevent the group from acquiring a robust precision-strike capability. The site's proximity to Syria facilitated the smuggling of components necessary for missile production.
The strike occurred amidst heightened tensions and a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024. The IDF emphasized that disabling such a critical production facility was essential to mitigating the threat posed by Hezbollah's arsenal. Social media personality Eyal Yakoby, a University of Pennsylvania graduate and prominent pro-Israel voice, highlighted the event, stating in a tweet, "> BREAKING: Hezbollah’s largest missile production site has been completely destroyed."
The operation underscores the strategic importance Israel places on preventing Hezbollah from enhancing its missile capabilities, which have been a significant concern for Israeli security. The destruction of this facility is expected to severely impact Hezbollah's ability to produce precision-guided missiles in the near term, forcing the group to reassess its domestic weapons manufacturing strategy.