Iran has warned US it will respond forcefully to any Israeli offensive on south Lebanon ridge

Live updates

1. 7d ago

   Iran Warns of Destructive Attacks as US and Iran Trade Strikes

   Iran and the United States are trading strikes and threats in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. The US struck three Iranian oil tankers after the Revolutionary Guard targeted an aircraft carrier and a guided-missile destroyer with ballistic missiles. Simultaneously, Iran warned that a full-scale Israeli offensive on the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon could trigger a large-scale Iranian attack. Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia claims damaged US radar and air-defense installations have created an easier path for Iranian missiles and drones to reach Israel.

   Why it matters

   Israel previously captured the Ali al-Taher ridge to secure a security zone and demolish Hezbollah facilities. This regional escalation has pushed US diesel prices to record levels. The conflict now involves direct military engagement between US and Iranian forces in strategic waterways.

   What is confirmed

   • The US struck three Iranian oil tankers after the Revolutionary Guard fired ballistic missiles at a guided-missile destroyer and an aircraft carrier.
   • Iran warned the US that a full-scale Israeli offensive on the Ali al-Taher ridge could trigger a large-scale Iranian attack.
   • US diesel prices reached a record high.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the evacuation of some West Bank settlements deemed illegal under Israeli law.

   What to watch next

   • Further Iranian missile or drone launches toward Israel
   • US military response to the targeting of the aircraft carrier and destroyer
   • Confirmation of the evacuation of West Bank settler outposts
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. www.yahoo.com — Price of diesel in U.S. hits record as Vance downplays Iran war impact
   2. timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Israeli On Alert; Iran Warns 'Highly Destructive' Attack Over IDF's Lebanon Op; 'Will Be Hit Harder'
   3. www.yahoo.com — U.S. strikes Iranian oil tankers in retaliation for Iran targeting warships
   4. english.aawsat.com — Netanyahu Orders Evacuation of Some West Bank Settler Outposts
   5. www.foxnews.com — Iran-backed Houthi rebels attack Saudi Arabia in major escalation that injures dozens
   confidence 80%
2. 11d ago

   Israel captures Ali Taher Ridge as Iran warns US of forceful response

   The Israeli Defense Forces have captured the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon, clearing Hezbollah tunnels and facilities after a months-long operation. Israel reports that Hezbollah fighters were either killed or fled the area, and the military is preparing to demolish the site. Simultaneously, Iran has warned the United States that it will respond forcefully to any Israeli offensive on the ridge. Israeli officials state the takeover secures a security zone and cements Israel's foothold in the region.

   Why it matters

   The Ali Taher Ridge served as a strategic Hezbollah fortress in southern Lebanon. Control of this high ground allows Israel to establish a security buffer to prevent militant incursions. Tensions remain high as Iran threatens retaliation while Israel manages risks during upcoming holidays.

   What is confirmed

   • The IDF cleared Hezbollah tunnels and facilities on the Ali Taher Ridge.
   • Israel has captured the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon from Hezbollah.
   • Iran warned the United States it will respond forcefully to any Israeli offensive on the south Lebanon ridge.
   • Israel describes the Ali Taher takeover as a means to cement control over a southern Lebanon security zone.

   What to watch next

   • Demolition of the Ali Taher Ridge facility
   • Iranian military actions in response to the ridge offensive
   • Israeli statements regarding holiday-period escalation risks
   Sources used for this update (13)

   1. The Jerusalem Post — Live Updates: Latest from Israel, Iran, and the Middle East
   2. The Times of Israel — Iran has warned US it will respond forcefully to any Israeli offensive on south Lebanon ridge
   3. Reuters — Iran warns US against Israeli attack on south Lebanon ridge held by Hezbollah, sources say
   4. The Times of Israel — IDF says it has finished clearing out Hezbollah’s Ali Taher Ridge facility ahead of demolition
   5. i24NEWS — Iran Warns US Against Israeli Offensive On Hezbollah-held Lebanon Ridge - Report
   6. The Jerusalem Post — IDF clears Hezbollah tunnels on Ali al-Taher ridge in Lebanon after months-long operation
   7. Ynetnews — IDF says Hezbollah’s Ali Taher ridge cleared as terrorists killed or fled
   8. Ynetnews — Iran threatens 'powerful response' as Israel downplays risk of escalation over holidays
   9. The New York Times — Israel Says It Cleared Tunnels to Strategic Hezbollah Fortress in Lebanon
   10. The Times of Israel — Katz: Ali Taher takeover cements Israeli control over south Lebanon ‘security zone’
   11. Reuters — Israel says it has cleared Hezbollah fighters from tunnels under key Lebanon ridge
   12. nytimes.com — Israel Says It Is Cementing Its Foothold in Southern Lebanon
   confidence 95%