Israel's security establishment is on high alert tonight as the IDF prepares to finalize an operation in al-Taher, according to Israeli media reports. Officials also express concern over a potential Iranian retaliatory strike.
Israel's security establishment is on high alert this evening as the IDF prepares to finalize its operation on the strategic Ali Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, with defense officials expressing concern over a possible Iranian retaliatory strike. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Wednesday evening that Israeli forces were actively operating on the ridge, citing the operation as one of the factors behind the elevated alert level across the country.
The Zioneer reported Wednesday evening (Sep 9, 21:25 Jerusalem) that the IDF had completed operational preparations to neutralize Hezbollah's tunnel networks on the ridge, with a decision on timing approaching. Minutes later, the desk reported that Israel was on high alert as the operation drew to a close, amid fears of an Iranian response. Netanyahu then confirmed to N13 and Army Radio that forces were currently handling the ridge, providing on-record corroboration for the heightened readiness.
The ongoing alert must be viewed against the backdrop of broader regional tensions. As The Zioneer reported on Aug 1-2, the Israeli security establishment had transitioned to a state of peak alert, bracing for possible escalation involving Iran amid reports of a potential US-led military campaign against Iran's energy infrastructure. While the Ali Taher operation is a targeted action against Hezbollah's cross-border tunnel network, Israeli assessments continue to factor in the risk of an Iranian response given Hezbollah's pressure on Tehran.
The precise timeline for completing the operation remains unspecified, and it is not yet clear whether the final phase will be concluded before Rosh Hashanah. The question of whether or how Iran may retaliate remains open, with Israeli officials closely monitoring developments.
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Source and signal
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