Overview
- The Israeli military announced on Sunday that troops from the 36th Division had gained operational control of the Ali al‑Taher ridge and cleared two underground routes that it says were used by Hezbollah.
- Independent on‑the‑ground reports and continued strikes raise doubts about permanent Israeli control because an AP photographer saw no clear Israeli presence and attacks in the area have not stopped.
- An Arabic report carried by Israel National News said Hezbollah evacuated the ridge on orders from Iran's leadership, but that account is limited and has not been independently verified.
- The hill overlooks key towns and supply routes near Nabatieh and has long strategic value, so control of Ali al‑Taher could change bargaining power in the June framework that ties an Israeli withdrawal to phased Hezbollah disarmament.
- Civilians in southern Lebanon have faced repeated strikes and deaths around the ridge and negotiators will likely weigh the military claims against on‑the‑ground uncertainty as talks restart later this month.