Full Breakdown
US Central Command Commends Lebanese Armed Forces for Hezbollah Tunnel Discovery
2/10/2026, 3:55:24 AM
Central Event: Discovery of Hezbollah Tunnels
US Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Admiral Brad Cooper publicly praised the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) for uncovering a significant Hezbollah tunnel network for the second time in two months. This discovery is seen as a critical step in dismantling infrastructure used by non-state actors to store weapons, including ammunition, missiles, and attack drones. Admiral Cooper emphasized that such actions contribute to peace and stability in Lebanon and the broader region.
Official Statements & Responses
In his statement, Admiral Cooper remarked, “Dismantling tunnels nefariously used by non-state actors to store ammunition, missiles, and attack drones promotes peace and stability in Lebanon and across the region. Job well done by the LAF and [the] US-led Mechanism team that is helping enforce commitments made by Israel and Lebanon.” This statement reflects the US's ongoing support for the LAF in its efforts to counter Hezbollah's military capabilities.
Additionally, LAF chief General Rodolphe Haykal recently visited Washington, where he met with US officials to discuss American support for the LAF and efforts to disarm Hezbollah. However, during this meeting, Senator Lindsey Graham noted that Haykal did not recognize Hezbollah as a terrorist organization within the context of Lebanon, which led to the premature conclusion of their discussions.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the praise from US officials, there are dissenting views regarding the LAF's approach to Hezbollah. General Haykal's refusal to label Hezbollah as a terrorist organization has raised concerns among US lawmakers about the effectiveness of the LAF's commitment to disarming the group. This stance may complicate future US support and cooperation with the LAF, as it reflects a broader challenge in addressing Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon.
What's Next
The ongoing collaboration between the US and the LAF is expected to continue, particularly in efforts to dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure. Future discussions may focus on how to navigate the complexities of Lebanese politics and the implications of Hezbollah's status within the country. The effectiveness of US-led initiatives in promoting stability in Lebanon will likely be scrutinized as these developments unfold.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Congratulations to the LAF for recently finding a massive underground Hezbollah terror tunnel for the second time in the past two months,” — Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM Chief
- “Job well done by the LAF and [the] US-led Mechanism team that is helping enforce commitments made by Israel and Lebanon,” — Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM Chief
