US delegation in Lebanon to discuss Israel 'pilot zone' withdrawal

A United States military delegation has arrived in Beirut to coordinate the implementation of Israel's withdrawal from a designated "pilot zone" in southern Lebanon. The meetings with the Lebanese army command aim to establish the mechanisms for this initial withdrawal, allowing Lebanese forces to deploy in the area. This move is a direct translation of a framework agreement reached on June 26, which outlines Israel's gradual disengagement from occupied Lebanese territory. The agreement, however, has faced rejection from Hezbollah, and Israeli officials maintain their forces will remain in a "security zone" as long as Hezbollah is armed. The Lebanese military official, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the primary objective of the U.S. delegation is to facilitate the implementation of this framework. The U.S. ambassador to Lebanon had previously informed President Joseph Aoun about the impending arrival of the delegation to determine the withdrawal process. A U.S. official in Washington confirmed that the implementation stage has begun, with the first pilot zone expected to launch within days and further zones being planned. U.S. Central Command will oversee coordination between Lebanon and Israel. Despite the ongoing truce, Israel has conducted intermittent strikes in southern Lebanon. Future talks between Lebanon and Israel are scheduled in Rome, with Lebanon conditioning its participation on Israel's withdrawal from two pilot zones. The discussions also precede President Aoun's anticipated visit to Washington.

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The American military delegation arrived and began meetings with the Lebanese army command to discuss the mechanisms for implementing the first pilot zone from which the Israelis will withdraw, allowing the Lebanese army to deploy.