The first pilot zone for a gradual Israeli military withdrawal from southern Lebanon will be established within days, the United States government announced on Wednesday. The operation is being coordinated by American Central Command in collaboration with both Israel and Lebanon, with additional zones currently being mapped and planned.
A U.S. military delegation will arrive in Beirut shortly to oversee the withdrawal from two experimental areas, the Lebanese presidency confirmed. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for the ceasefire to be consolidated, while Israel continues to insist on a ten-kilometre security buffer inside Lebanese territory. Control of zones will be transferred only after non-state groups are disarmed.
The rollout follows a framework ceasefire agreement signed in Washington on June 26. American officials will soon contact international partners to help Beirut restore sovereignty, with further talks between Israeli, Lebanese, and U.S. representatives scheduled for Rome on July 14 and 15.