US says Lebanese army deploying to ‘pilot zones,’ including one IDF will withdraw from

The Lebanese army has begun deploying to three southern villages in Lebanon, marking a significant step in a U.S.-brokered deal aimed at securing an Israeli withdrawal and disarming Hezbollah. The U.S. State Department announced the commencement of "pilot zone operations," a crucial phase where the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will assume security control in areas vacated by Israeli troops.

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Today, pilot zone operations began in the villages of Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar Al-Gharbiya, in accordance with the Trilateral Framework and under the auspices of the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon.

These initial deployments are taking place in Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar Al-Gharbiya. Notably, Froun and Srifa are situated outside the Israeli-defined buffer zone in southern Lebanon. Zawtar Al-Gharbiya, however, lies within this buffer zone, meaning Israeli forces will be required to withdraw from it as part of the agreement. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are expected to make their first withdrawal on Tuesday, though the specific location has not been disclosed.

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This milestone is a direct outcome of last week’s discussions between Israel and Lebanon in Rome. The United States will continue working closely with both parties to implement the framework to a successful conclusion.

This operation is a direct test of the Trilateral Framework agreement, which Israel and Lebanon signed on June 26 after extensive negotiations. The framework outlines a phased Israeli pullback from southern Lebanon. In return, the LAF will take sole security responsibility for the evacuated areas, ensuring they are cleared of Hezbollah's weapons and infrastructure. The pilot zones are designed to trial this approach in a limited number of villages before extending it to broader regions along the Litani River.

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coordination is underway

The LAF confirmed that coordination is ongoing with the U.S.-led Military Coordination Group for Lebanon for the deployment in Zawtar Al-Gharbiya following the Israeli withdrawal. The army also issued a warning to Lebanese civilians to avoid the town and comply with military instructions for their safety, while continuing patrols in Froun and Srifa. The U.S. State Department emphasized its continued close work with both parties to ensure the framework's successful implementation.

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and to comply with the instructions of the deployed military units to ensure their safety.