Israeli operations in Lebanon remain focused on consolidating control over a southern security zone roughly 10 kilometers deep, including recent capture of the strategic Ali al-Taher ridge near Nabatieh and associated underground Hezbollah infrastructure in early September 2026. Ongoing artillery, airstrikes, and demolitions target Hezbollah positions in southern districts such as Tyre and Bint Jbeil, while low-altitude drone activity has been reported over Beirut and its southern suburbs without ground incursions. A June U.S.-brokered framework ties any Israeli withdrawals to Lebanese army deployment and Hezbollah disarmament in pilot zones, though talks have faced delays and Hezbollah has rejected key terms. Defense Minister statements frame the ridge operation as completing southern zone objectives, with no public signals of northward expansion toward the capital. Scheduled diplomatic rounds, including delayed Rome discussions, and potential Hezbollah responses could influence escalation risks or de-escalation timelines.