IDF Announces Clearing of Ali Taher Ridge in Southern Lebanon

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Thursday that it has established operational control over the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon and cleared Hezbollah's underground infrastructure in the area. According to the military, troops from the 36th Division spent weeks trapping Hezbollah operatives within two underground routes, killing dozens and forcing others to flee. The complex reportedly contained command centers, weapons caches, living quarters, and logistical facilities, which Israeli officials described as a strategic project developed over two decades with Iranian planning and funding. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described the ridge as a critical defensive stronghold for the Nabatieh area and stated that the IDF would maintain its presence in the security zone until Hezbollah is disarmed and the threat to Galilee residents is removed. Meanwhile, reports from The New York Times and Reuters, citing Iranian sources, claimed that Tehran viewed the operation as crossing a red line and alleged that Iranian advisers were present at the site—a claim that Israeli security officials have denied.