Lebanese army says troops deploying in 'pilot zone' after Israeli withdrawal

The Lebanese army has begun deploying troops to a "pilot zone" in southern Lebanon following the withdrawal of Israeli forces. This deployment, which started Tuesday morning in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, is part of a US-brokered agreement reached last month. The plan involves Israeli troops pulling out of a small occupied territory and the disarmament of Hezbollah. The agreement is a result of discussions between Israeli and Lebanese representatives in Rome. The US State Department confirmed the start of these "pilot zone operations" in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh and two other villages. This development precedes a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, where Aoun is expected to seek further Israeli withdrawal and support for the Lebanese army.

Under a US-brokered plan, Israel is to hand over control of some areas in southern Lebanon to the Lebanese government, marking the beginning of a "pilot zone" project. Displaced residents have started returning to villages like Froun and Ghandouriyeh, which were affected by Israeli bombardment. However, some locals and Lebanese security sources state these villages were not occupied by Israeli forces, questioning the significance of the handover. The plan is part of a framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, which involves Israeli withdrawal from select areas amidst ongoing conflict. Lebanese army patrols are present in the pilot zones, and residents are returning despite destruction and lack of services, expressing anxiety about the future.

The Lebanese army will begin implementing a trilateral framework agreement between Israel, Lebanon, and the US by taking charge of security in three pilot villages in southern Lebanon: Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar al-Gharbiya. This plan, announced by the US State Department, involves a phased Israeli military retreat, followed by the Lebanese army assuming security and overseeing the disarmament of Hezbollah. The agreement stems from recent discussions in Rome and was finalized on June 26 after six rounds of negotiations. The US will continue to work with both parties for its successful conclusion. However, Hezbollah has rejected the deal, demanding an unconditional Israeli withdrawal. Questions regarding the timing of the Israeli forces' departure remain.