Iran warns US of forceful response to Israeli attack on Lebanon ridge

Iran warned the United States that it would respond forcefully to any Israeli offensive on the Ali al-Taher ridge in southern Lebanon, where Iranian military personnel are stationed alongside Hezbollah fighters, three officials briefed on the message told Reuters. The warning was delivered last month via Oman. The message highlights Iran's direct involvement in ground fighting in southern Lebanon, with over a dozen Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps members, including senior officers, reportedly present at the ridge. Hezbollah has built an underground command center and weapons stores there, making it a key contested area in the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military has besieged the ridge, attempting to cut off supplies, and has identified it as a primary operational focus. Hezbollah warned that a large-scale attack would trigger a return to full-blown war, potentially targeting northern Israeli communities.