Israel Awaits U.S. Approval for Operation on Strategic Lebanese Ridge

Israel is reportedly seeking U.S. approval for a military operation to capture the strategic Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon. Lebanese newspaper Al Joumhouria cited a senior security official stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are on high alert for the operation, which would give them control over large areas of the Nabatieh region.

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Washington had made clear to the Lebanese leadership that it would not be able to completely prevent Israel from taking action. However, according to the same source, US officials asked that any operation be as limited and precise as possible, while minimizing destruction and civilian casualties in order to avoid the collapse of the framework of understandings between Israel and Lebanon.

According to the report, messages sent to officials in Beirut indicate that Washington has informed the Lebanese leadership that it cannot entirely prevent Israeli action. However, U.S. officials have requested that any operation be as precise and limited as possible, with minimal destruction and civilian casualties. This is to prevent the collapse of the existing framework of understandings between Israel and Lebanon.

The senior security official assessed that Israel views controlling the ridge as a crucial military objective. The primary concern for Beirut is how Hezbollah would respond to such an Israeli advance. Lebanese newspaper Nidaa al Watan also reported on the ridge, quoting military sources who claim Israel is employing a strategy of gradual advances, using robotic systems to establish positions while reducing risks to its soldiers.

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Israel is pursuing a policy of gradual advances in the area, and is using robotic systems to establish positions while reducing the risk to soldiers.

Reports suggest that IDF forces already control significant portions of the ridge but have halted tactical advances due to political sensitivities and ongoing negotiations. The Ali Taher Ridge, located north of the Litani River, rises to about 600 meters and offers a commanding view of Nabatieh and its surroundings. Lebanese security officials believe its strategic importance extends beyond its elevation, potentially housing a network of tunnels and facilities used by Hezbollah. Israeli activity is reportedly focused on locating underground infrastructure and command rooms.

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Israel's characterization of the Ali Taher Ridge as Hezbollah's most important command center is exaggerated, and that the terrorist organization maintains more infrastructure elsewhere in southern Lebanon.