Lebanese Army claims IDF opened fire near troops during 'Safe Zone' pilot

The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) stated that Israeli forces opened fire in the vicinity of LAF troops in the southern Lebanese village of Zawtar al-Gharbiya. The incident reportedly occurred during the implementation of a "Safe Zone" pilot program on Tuesday.

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The IDF reportedly opened fire in the vicinity of Lebanese Army troops in Zawtar al-Gharbiya, an area in the city of Nabatiya, during the implementation of the "Safe Zone" pilot program on Tuesday, according to a statement from the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).

An Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) source told KAN News that the firing was a response to Lebanese soldiers crossing the established borders of the pilot zone. The LAF, however, claimed the IDF's actions were an attempt to obstruct the program by preventing Lebanese soldiers from entering the designated areas.

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they opened fire after Lebanese soldiers crossed the established borders of the pilot zone.

The "Safe Zone" pilot program, which is being implemented with cooperation from the US and Lebanese militaries, involves LAF troops entering specific areas in southern Lebanon. Their mission is to verify that these zones have been cleared of Hezbollah operatives and weapons, according to individuals familiar with the matter. The IDF confirmed the program's commencement, emphasizing coordination among the participating military forces.

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As part of the pilot, teams from the IDF, the US military, and the Lebanese Armed Forces are coordinating and planning the continued implementation of the agreement.