Lebanon pushes Hezbollah disarmament in pilot zones to spur Israeli withdrawal

Lebanon is actively working to disarm Hezbollah in designated pilot zones as a crucial step toward securing a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territories. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced the government's commitment to this objective during a visit to the village of Zawtar al-Gharbiya, one of the pilot areas.

The Lebanese army commenced its deployment in Zawtar al-Gharbiya on July 21. Following the raising of the Lebanese flag, Salam emphasized that alongside the military presence, efforts would focus on clearing rubble and restoring essential public services to enable residents to return safely and with dignity. This push for Israeli withdrawal follows President Joseph Aoun's recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, where the urgency of Israel's complete exit from Lebanese land was highlighted.

Since March, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in over 4,300 deaths in Lebanon, with Israeli forces also demolishing numerous buildings in the south. The conflict between Israel and armed groups within Lebanon has seen a significant reduction since the framework agreement between the U.S. and Iran and the subsequent agreement between Israel and Lebanon last month.

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In parallel with the army's deployment, we will continue to open roads, clear rubble, and restore basic public services so that our people can return to their homes and villages safely and with dignity.