Iran Warns US of Strong Response to Israeli Attack on Lebanon's Ali al-Taher Hill

Iran has warned the United States that a broad Israeli offensive on Ali al-Taher hill in southern Lebanon would trigger a significant Iranian military response. This message, conveyed through Oman in August, signals escalating tensions and the potential for a wider conflict between Iran and Israel. Lebanese security sources believe Hezbollah has established an underground facility and weapons storage at the strategically important hill, which overlooks large areas of southeastern Lebanon.

Hezbollah has previously claimed control of the hill and stated its readiness to confront any Israeli advance, though it has not confirmed or denied the presence of Iranian forces, including Revolutionary Guard officers, in the area. The Israeli military views Ali al-Taher hill as a key axis for its ground operations in southern Lebanon, having secured surrounding territories. The IDF maintains that Hezbollah remains active in the region despite a ceasefire agreement.

According to a foreign official familiar with the message, Israel may have delayed an operation on the hill due to American pressure. However, the White House has denied exerting such pressure, calling reports of its intervention inaccurate. Hezbollah has described Iran's warning as natural, viewing any Israeli expansion in southern Lebanon as a major violation of understandings between Washington and Tehran.

The Israeli military conducted an airstrike in July targeting a Hezbollah operative near an underground site entrance at Ali al-Taher hill, vowing to prevent the group from rebuilding its capabilities there. The IDF also reported that Hezbollah launched two explosive drone attacks near the hill towards Israeli forces last week, indicating continued military activity.

Israeli military officials stated in June that Hezbollah operatives were trapped in underground facilities, with the IDF attempting to force them out through a siege and supply blockade. Hezbollah, however, claims it can still access its positions from the north of the hill. Despite Iran's warning, Lebanese and security sources believe an Israeli military operation to seize the hill remains possible in the coming weeks, with Hezbollah warning that such an attack could escalate into a full-scale war, potentially involving rocket fire towards northern Israel and igniting a new regional confrontation.