Hezbollah Vacates Ali Taher Ridge on Iran's Orders, Report Claims

Hezbollah has withdrawn from the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon, leaving the area for Israeli forces instead of handing it over to the Lebanese army, according to a report by the Arabic newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat. The decision to evacuate the strategic ridge was reportedly made under explicit instructions from Iran's leadership.

A source involved in ongoing negotiations between Israel and Lebanon told the newspaper that Hezbollah's withdrawal has raised numerous questions, particularly concerning Tehran's stance. The source emphasized that Hezbollah is not authorized to make such decisions independently, especially given prior Iranian threats to intervene and protect the site. "Was the evacuation of the Ali Taher Ridge part of a settlement involving Tehran? Was the move preceded by international mediators who facilitated a safe exit for military experts from the Revolutionary Guards who were present at the military facility?" the source questioned.

The source further clarified that Iran's threats of military intervention and support for Hezbollah to defend the ridge remained "ink on paper" and were not translated into action on the ground. This behavior aligns with Iran's unfulfilled threats to retaliate for the assassination of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the source added.