Iran warns US of retaliation if Israel storms southern Lebanon ridge

Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States, threatening a significant retaliation if Israel launches a full-scale offensive on the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon. This threat was relayed to Washington through Oman by three officials familiar with the matter, Reuters reported. Tehran conveyed the message in mid-August, according to two regional sources. A third source suggested that US pressure led Israel to suspend plans for an assault on the strategically important ridge.

Over a dozen members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including at least two senior officers, are currently hiding on the ridge alongside Hezbollah fighters, two officials stated. However, Hezbollah has neither confirmed nor denied the presence of these individuals. Israeli forces have already established a foothold south of Ali al-Taher and have made the ridge a "primary operational focus."

In an effort to pressure those inside, Israel has attempted to blockade the area and intercept drones delivering supplies like food and water, according to an official with knowledge of the situation. Despite these efforts, Hezbollah maintains control over the hill and has vowed to resist any Israeli advance.

Iran considers any Israeli ground movement within southern Lebanon, particularly territorial expansion, as a severe breach of the Islamabad Agreement. This agreement, signed in June by the United States and Iran, included a ceasefire in Lebanon. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued attacking the region. The White House dismissed Iran's warning, asserting that the account is inaccurate.