Israeli forces have begun fortifying Al-Oweida hill, a strategic high ground in southern Lebanon as the ceasefire deadline requiring Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territories has expired, several military and field sources told Asharq Al-Awsat. 

The hill, located between the Lebanese towns of Taybeh and Adaisseh in the eastern sector, is being transformed into a fortified military position. According to reports, Israeli forces have installed advanced electronic systems at the site, raising concerns over Israel’s intentions ahead of the end of the 60-day timeframe stipulated in the recent ceasefire agreement between the two countries.

The sources noted that the site’s location is not directly accessible from Israel’s borders, requiring passage through Lebanese villages such as Adaisseh and Kfarkila or access by helicopter. 

Al-Oweida hill has long been regarded as a pivotal vantage point. Retired Brigadier General Mounir Chehade, a former coordinator for the Lebanese government with UNIFIL, described the hill as “a towering strategic position” that dominates the surrounding region.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Chehade explained that Al-Oweida is the highest point in the central and eastern sectors. It overlooks critical valleys like Wadi Al-Slouqi and Wadi Al-Hujeir, as well as villages north of the Litani River, including Yohmor, Zawtar, and Qaaqaiyet Al-Jisr.

Chehade also emphasized the hill’s visibility over key locations, including Adaisseh, Kfarkila, Deir Mimas, and Taybeh.

“From there, one can see most of the Galilee Finger settlements and a large portion of southern Lebanon. Its strategic importance makes it a prime target for Israeli forces seeking control over the region,” he said.

However, Chehade noted that Israel faces logistical challenges in accessing the hill.

“Al-Oweida cannot be reached directly from occupied territories, forcing Israel to either rely on Lebanese routes or aerial access, both of which carry significant risks.”

Historically, Al-Oweida has been of considerable military significance. Chehade recalled that it served as a key artillery base for the Lebanese army from 1975 onward. Before Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000, the site was a key landing zone for Israeli helicopters, facilitating troop movements and evacuations.

Retired Brigadier General Dr. Hisham Jaber, head of the Middle East Center for Strategic Studies, voiced concerns about potential Israeli plans to establish a broader presence along the Lebanese border.

“Al-Oweida was a critical military site for the Lebanese army dating back to 1948,” Jaber told Asharq Al-Awsat. “Recent actions suggest that Israeli forces are preparing to remain there permanently.”

He highlighted fears that Israel might target additional strategic sites, including Al-Hammams Hill in the eastern sector, Kfarkila, Maroun Al-Ras, and other elevated positions.

“These sites pose a strategic threat to Israel’s security due to their vantage points over occupied Palestine. However, any Israeli attempt to expand its presence or create a buffer zone inside Lebanese territory would face significant resistance.”

Al-Oweida hill provides a commanding view of northern Israeli towns and cities, including Kiryat Shmona, the Hula Valley, and Tiberias, and extends further into the Golan Heights.

Prior to its withdrawal from southern Lebanon in 2000, the Israeli military destroyed its installations on Al-Oweida. During the 2006 war, Israel attempted to reclaim the site but was unsuccessful.