Explainer-Ali al-Taher ridge emerges as flashpoint in Israel-Hezbollah war
The Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon has become a critical strategic flashpoint in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The area is highly contested due to its commanding view of the region and suspected underground military infrastructure.
Why it matters
Control of this ridge is central to the tactical operations of both Israeli forces and Hezbollah, influencing the broader regional conflict.
FILE PHOTO: Smoke rises near Beaufort Castle which was captured by Israeli forces, as seen from Marjayoun, southern Lebanon, June 3, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo — Stringer By Nayera Abdallah
BEIRUT, Sept 3 (Reuters) - The Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, which is named after a Shi'ite Muslim scholar whose shrine sits at its summit, has become one of the most contested pieces of ground in the Israel-Hezbollah war.
The cluster of hills is not especially large. But what it overlooks in southern Lebanon — and what Hezbollah is suspected to have built beneath it — thrust it to the centre of the fight between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group.
Located about 15 km (10 miles) from the Israeli border, the Ali al-Taher ridge has a commanding view of a broad sweep of southeastern Lebanon. Israel held it during a 22-year occupation of south Lebanon that ended in 2000.
Also covering this story
2 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in