US to oversee Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon pilot zones, new talks set

The United States is set to manage the withdrawal of Israeli troops from specific zones in southern Lebanon, with the initial pullout anticipated within days, according to Lebanese and U.S. officials. This move follows a framework agreement established on June 26, which outlines a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces as part of their campaign against Hezbollah.

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an American military delegation will arrive in Beirut in the coming days to... determine the mechanism for implementation on the ground

New diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon are scheduled for next week in Rome. These discussions come after Lebanon reportedly demanded an Israeli withdrawal from the designated zones before participating. Under the agreement, the Lebanese military, historically with limited power, will gain full control over two small areas designated as pilot zones. The U.S. ambassador to Lebanon confirmed that an American military delegation will arrive soon to determine the on-ground implementation mechanisms.

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we have moved to the implementation stage of the framework

U.S. officials described the process as having entered the implementation stage, with the first pilot zone set to launch imminently and others being planned. U.S. Central Command will coordinate these zones with both nations. The U.S. also plans to engage international partners to assist the Lebanese government in restoring sovereignty in these areas and across the country.

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The first pilot zone will launch in a matter of days, and further pilot zones are being mapped out and planned

A key condition for Lebanon to assume full responsibility for the zones is the confirmation of successful disarmament of non-state armed groups, specifically Hezbollah. This condition has been rejected by Hezbollah. The agreement does not specify a timeline for Israel's withdrawal, and Israeli officials have stated their forces will maintain a 10-kilometer-deep security zone as long as Hezbollah remains armed. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged the U.S. to pressure Israel to halt military operations and adhere to the framework's provisions. Aoun is expected to visit Washington later this month.

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We will soon begin outreach to international partners to help the Lebanese government effectively restore sovereignty in these zones and across their country more broadly