Israel claims control of Lebanon’s key Ali al-Taher ridge: What that means

What the report says

Israel says its forces have taken operational control of the Ali al-Taher ridge, a strategically important highland in southern Lebanon near the border, after an extended campaign against Hezbollah positions. In remarks reported by Al Jazeera, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said troops had pushed Hezbollah fighters out of a tunnel network under the ridge and described the seizure as a step toward keeping a broader Israeli “security zone” in place until Hezbollah is disarmed across Lebanon.

Hezbollah had not publicly responded at the time of publication. Al Jazeera noted that the claim came as Israeli strikes and ground activity continued in the area despite a ceasefire agreed in June, and after Israel had already taken nearby terrain overlooking much of southern Lebanon and northern Israel. The article also said the ridge rises about 600 metres above sea level and sits roughly 15km from the border.

The report places the development within the wider Israel-Hezbollah conflict that has intensified at several points since October 2023. It also cites analysts who said control of the ridge could improve Israeli surveillance and military pressure on Lebanon, while questioning how much ground Israel actually holds and whether the lack of a Hezbollah response suggests a broader arrangement. Al Jazeera added that the fighting has contributed to heavy destruction and displacement in southern Lebanon, according to rights groups and regional observers.