Israel Seizes Strategic Ali Taher Ridge in Southern Lebanon

The Israeli military announced late Thursday that it has taken "operational control" of the Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, a strategic hill overlooking roads to the city of Nabatiyeh and nearby villages. The military stated that troops now control the hill itself and a network of underground facilities built by Hezbollah over the past two decades, including command centers, weapons storage rooms, and living quarters.

The capture marks a significant escalation in a rare flashpoint that has persisted since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect in late June. While fighting has largely stopped across Lebanon, Ali Taher hill has seen near-daily shelling and airstrikes in recent weeks, with Hezbollah repeatedly attacking Israeli forces in the area with drones.

The hill's strategic location overlooks several villages and main roads leading to Nabatiyeh. Its capture opens the way to the city and nearby areas where Hezbollah has major strongholds. However, the extent of Israel's control remains unclear, as Lebanese state media reported intense Israeli airstrikes on the area just before the announcement.

Hezbollah has not officially commented on Israel's claim. A Hezbollah legislator questioned why the Israeli military was still attacking the hill if it truly controlled the area. An Associated Press photographer visiting the nearby village of Kfar Rumman on Friday saw no sign of Israeli military presence on the hill.

The development comes amid ongoing U.S.-mediated talks between Lebanon and Israel. The U.S. had wanted Hezbollah to hand over the hill to the Lebanese army as part of a larger plan to disarm the militant group. Hezbollah has firmly rejected this proposal, fearing Israel would then seize control from the army and demand more territory.

Lebanon's Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri said the Lebanese army was ready to take over Ali Taher, accusing Israel of blocking the army due to political considerations ahead of Israeli national elections on October 27. Lebanese and Israeli officials are set to meet for negotiations in Rome later this month.

Meanwhile, there are indications that Hezbollah, which has always refused to speak directly to the U.S., may be changing its policy after major setbacks in its wars with Israel since 2024. A Lebanese official said indirect contacts are ongoing between the U.S. and Hezbollah, though details were not provided. The U.S. ambassador to Lebanon has said Washington is ready to speak with Hezbollah if the group agrees to disarm.