Israel Awaits U.S. Green Light for Operation on Ali Taher Ridge in Southern Lebanon

Israel is reportedly waiting for U.S. approval before launching an operation to take control of the Ali Taher Ridge, a strategic high ground overlooking the Nabatieh region in southern Lebanon, according to a senior security official cited by Lebanese newspaper Al Joumhouria. The official said Washington has indicated it cannot fully prevent Israeli action but has asked that any operation be limited, precise and minimize civilian casualties to preserve the existing framework of understandings between the two countries.

The Israeli Defence Forces are said to be at a high level of readiness for the mission, which Israeli sources describe as a key objective that they do not intend to abandon. Lebanese media report that Israel has already secured parts of the ridge but has paused further advances due to political sensitivities and ongoing negotiations.

The ridge, about 600 meters high north of the Litani River, is believed by Lebanese security officials to sit above a network of tunnels and facilities used by Hezbollah for years. Israeli reports claim the area houses command rooms and supply routes, while Lebanese military sources argue that the ridge is not Hezbollah's most important command centre and that the group’s infrastructure is spread elsewhere.

U.S. General Joseph Clearfield is slated to facilitate a new round of talks in Rome in early September, with Washington pushing for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah. A State Department official reiterated that a permanent Israeli presence would conflict with the framework of understandings and affirmed U.S. support for Lebanon’s sovereignty.

Lebanese officials have warned that Israel’s demand for the Lebanese army to verify the dismantling of Hezbollah infrastructure on the ridge could place the army in direct confrontation with the group. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes and artillery fire continue in the area, underscoring the ridge’s role as a focal point for regional tensions and diplomatic efforts.