Hezbollah Faces Internal Criticism After Losing Strategic Site to IDF

Hezbollah is facing significant internal criticism following the Israeli military's capture of the strategic Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. The organization has refrained from directly addressing the loss of the site, instead attempting to project strength through actions such as launching explosive drones towards Israeli forces. This silence has amplified embarrassment within the group, particularly as Lebanese political figures question the effectiveness of Hezbollah's arsenal.

Reports suggest that Iran granted Hezbollah the "green light" to withdraw from the ridge, a move that surprised many in Lebanon. A source familiar with negotiations indicated that Iran's threat to intervene militarily to defend the ridge remained largely symbolic, with no practical actions taken. The withdrawal allowed the IDF to gain control of the area.

Lebanese Sunni parliament member Fouad Makhzoumi sharply criticized Hezbollah's handling of the situation, accusing the group of failing to protect Lebanese territory and causing residents of southern Lebanon to bear the brunt of the conflict. He questioned Hezbollah's project for Lebanon, stating, "What did Hezbollah's weapons achieve? It prevented the army from entering its own land, but failed to prevent its occupation by Israel."

Hezbollah's official statement following the loss of Ali al-Taher did not mention the site. Instead, the organization redirected its criticism towards the Lebanese government and ongoing negotiations with Israel, arguing that the release of Lebanese prisoners should not justify ignoring continued aggression and occupation.