Strategic Shift in Southern Lebanon: Israel Asserts Control Over Ali al-Taher Ridge Amid Regional Tensions

Israel has claimed operational control over the strategically vital Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon following an extended military operation targeting positions held by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Israeli forces successfully drove Hezbollah fighters out of a tunnel network beneath the contested highland, situated 15km (10 miles) from the border.

Emphasizing the government's stance, Katz stated that Israel will maintain its security zone in Lebanon until Hezbollah is fully disarmed and threats to the residents of the Galilee are removed. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Hezbollah has not yet issued a formal response to these claims. However, reports indicated that Iran previously warned the United States about responding forcefully if attacks on the 600-metre-high ridge continued.

The ongoing conflict, which escalated significantly in September 2024 and March of this year, has led to widespread displacement and severe damage to civilian infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Despite a ceasefire agreed in June, military operations around the Ali al-Taher ridge have persisted following Israel's earlier capture of nearby Beaufort Castle.

Experts like Mohanad Hage Ali of the Carnegie Middle East Centre pointed to technological superiority and a lack of military restraint as key factors in Israel's advances. Analysts Ahron Bregman and Nicholas Blanford noted that the occupation serves as a tactical gain and a tool to pressure the government in Beirut, while questioning the extent of Iran's involvement and Hezbollah's muted reaction amidst upcoming elections for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.