Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a high-level security meeting on Sunday evening to authorize the withdrawal of military forces from two specific areas in southern Lebanon. According to reports from Israel’s Channel 13 and the official Israel Broadcasting Authority, the government is currently awaiting final coordination with the United States and the readiness of the Lebanese Armed Forces to proceed with this pilot project, which follows an agreement framework signed on June 26.
Status of the withdrawal plan
The proposed withdrawal is structured as a “pilot project” to test security arrangements in southern Lebanon. According to the Israel Broadcasting Authority, Israeli military officers have initiated communications with their Lebanese counterparts, under U.S. coordination, to define clear criteria for “Hezbollah-free zones.” This measure is intended to minimize the risk of friction or miscalculation during the transition. While the June 26 framework agreement outlines a gradual withdrawal, it does not provide a specific timeline for either the pilot areas or the broader territory.
The Israeli government has linked the actual movement of troops to verified guarantees regarding the Lebanese military’s capacity to maintain security and enforce the disarmament of non-state groups in the vacated zones. As reported by the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, Israel is waiting for a formal declaration from the Lebanese Army regarding its readiness to assume control, alongside approval from the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).
International oversight and U.S. involvement
The security situation remains under close international scrutiny, with the U.S. playing a central role in mediation. U.S. Marine Corps commander for the Central Region, Joseph Clearyfield, is scheduled to visit Lebanon on Monday following a stop in Israel. According to reports, Clearyfield is the primary official overseeing the pilot withdrawal plan, which serves as a key pillar in the broader U.S. proposal for post-war security arrangements in the region.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, military operations continue. On Sunday, Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir inspected troops near the Beaufort Castle (Qalaat al-Shaqif) in southern Lebanon, where he stated that the military would continue its work to remove threats posed by Hezbollah. Israel has maintained a military presence in parts of southern Lebanon, with some positions held for decades and others established during the conflict between 2023 and 2024.
What happens next?
The withdrawal is expected to proceed in stages, beginning with the two designated pilot areas. If the initial phase succeeds on the ground, officials indicate the scope of the withdrawal could be expanded, according to the Israel Broadcasting Authority. Future progress remains conditional on the successful implementation of international monitoring arrangements and the sustained control of the area by the Lebanese military.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the criteria for the “pilot” withdrawal?
The withdrawal is limited to two specific areas in southern Lebanon and is contingent upon the Lebanese Army’s ability to maintain full security control and ensure the areas remain free of Hezbollah’s presence.
Is there a set timeline for the Israeli military to leave southern Lebanon?
No. The June 26 framework agreement does not establish a clear timeline for withdrawing from the pilot zones or the entirety of the occupied territory in southern Lebanon.
What is the role of the United States in this process?
The U.S. is mediating the field arrangements and providing oversight for the pilot project. U.S. Marine Corps commander Joseph Clearyfield is tasked with supervising the plan as part of the broader U.S. strategy for post-war security.
How will the presence of international monitors change the day-to-day security dynamics in the border region?