The IDF shot down a Hezbollah-operated drone over southern Lebanon after it was observed surveilling troops on the Ali Taher Ridge. Military sources said the unmanned aircraft carried only a camera and was unarmed. Separately, N12 reported that Israel is weighing a full ban on drones in its airspace amid concerns about Hezbollah and Iran and gaps in counter-drone defenses.
IDF Shoots Down Hezbollah Surveillance Drone Over Southern Lebanon; Israel Weighs Nationwide Drone Ban
Drone flying on high altitude mountain top; illustrative. (photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK/lzf)
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it shot down a Hezbollah-operated drone over southern Lebanon on Sunday after observers reported the unmanned aircraft conducting surveillance on troops positioned along the Ali Taher Ridge.
Army Radio correspondent Doron Kadosh reported that the drone was targeted after it was seen gathering intelligence on IDF positions. Military sources said the drone was equipped with a camera and was unarmed, appearing to be used for reconnaissance rather than as an explosive threat.
Drone caught in anti-explosive drone barbed wire supplied by the IDF to the Lebanese army, May 14, 2026. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Government Considers Broad Drone Restrictions
On July 18, N12 News reported that the Israeli government is considering a total ban on drones in Israeli airspace — including civilian devices used for photography — amid rising concerns about drone use by Hezbollah and Iran. The move is reportedly driven by concerns over gaps in current counter-drone capabilities and the risk that hostile actors could increasingly deploy unmanned aerial systems in attacks.
Sources say the Security Cabinet has already discussed the proposal and circulated the defense establishment's assessment to Knesset ministers. Officials emphasize that no final decision has been made and that leaders are still weighing options to balance public use of drones with national security needs.
Image note: An image dated May 14, 2026, shows a drone entangled in anti-explosive barbed wire supplied by the IDF to the Lebanese Army, illustrating growing efforts to counter unmanned systems along the border region.
Officials: Discussions are ongoing as authorities evaluate technical, legal and civilian-safety implications before taking any sweeping regulatory action.
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