IDF claims operational control of Ali al Taher Ridge; Hezbollah denies loss

The IDF reports clearing Hezbollah fighters from underground infrastructure on Ali al Taher Ridge in south Lebanon, claiming operational control above and below ground. Hezbollah denies the loss, and the episode highlights the failure of Lebanese government negotiation efforts, prompting an Iranian threat of direct retaliation. The claim is unverified and contested, with implications for escalation along the Israel-Lebanon border.