Lebanese PM Visits Area of Israeli Withdrawal, Declares It a Beginning

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam visited the southern town of Zawtar al Gharbiya, where the Lebanese army deployed the previous day after Israeli troops pulled back. Salam declared that this step signifies the commencement of Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory, fulfilling a framework agreement mediated by the United States.

"From the beginning, we have affirmed that our goal is the total withdrawal of Israel from all our territory. What we witnessed today is only the beginning, but we are determined and firm," the prime minister stated in a message shared on his official X account. He emphasized that the Lebanese army's deployment is part of the implementation of the agreement between Beirut and Israel, reiterating the authorities' commitment to consolidating state presence in the recovered areas.

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From the beginning, we have affirmed that our goal is the total withdrawal of Israel from all our territory. What we witnessed today is only the beginning, but we are determined and firm

The prime minister also announced that the government is mobilizing resources to aid the return of displaced individuals to southern towns. Efforts are underway to reopen roads, clear debris, and re-establish essential services, including water, electricity, and communications. Prefabricated housing is also being prepared to support the population during the transition phase. Salam stressed that the return of residents to their villages is a "national objective" and an "authentic expression of Lebanon's unity and sovereignty."

The Lebanese army's deployment in Zawtar al Gharbiya, one of three areas included in the withdrawal agreement, occurred amid reports that Israeli troops fired warning shots near Lebanese units. Israel confirmed the shots, stating they were fired into the air after Lebanese soldiers and an engineering vehicle crossed the established withdrawal zone by approximately 150 meters. The agreement stipulates a gradual Israeli withdrawal from "pilot zones" as the Lebanese Armed Forces assume full security responsibility.

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the return of inhabitants to their villages constitutes 'a national objective' and represents 'the most authentic expression of the unity and sovereignty of Lebanon'