It was formerly considered a subspecies of Ablepharus kitaibelii, but has since been distinguished.

It is found throughout north and central Israel, Lebanon, western Jordan, and the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt.

In Israel, the species is common and can be found in cities.

It is one of the few reptiles capable of living in areas afforested with Aleppo pine (these are very widespread in Israel).

Few threats exist to the species as a whole, though deforestation and loss of traditionally farmed orchards may affect specific populations.