Lebanese Army Steps in After Israeli Pull‑out

Mon Sep 07 2026 10:18:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Lebanese army is deploying troops in a pilot zone after Israel withdraws, sparking new tensions and a US‑led effort to curb Hezbollah.

Following an Israeli withdrawal under a US‑brokered deal, the Lebanese army has moved into a pilot zone in southern Lebanon. Engineering units reached the village of Zawtar al‑Gharbiyeh, sparking a brief skirmish with Israeli troops who fired warning shots. A three‑country Trilateral Framework aims to disarm Hezbollah and stabilize the area, with the US pledging support for Lebanon’s security. The move comes amid talks between President Joseph Aoun and US President Donald Trump, who promised new aid and direct dialogue with Hezbollah.

After a last‑month US‑brokered agreement, Israeli forces pulled back from parts of southern Lebanon. In a swift response, the Lebanese army moved troops into a pilot zone near Zawtar al‑Gharbiyeh to begin disarmament work and stabilize the area.

Engineering units reached the village on Tuesday morning, but Israeli troops were fired upon when Lebanese forces crossed roughly 150 meters into the so‑called security zone. IDF soldiers fired warning shots in the air, leading the Lebanese troops to withdraw with no injuries.

The pilot zone also includes Froun and Srifa. The US has announced concrete plans to help Lebanon build capabilities to disarm Hezbollah, and President Joseph Aoun has urged President Trump to pressure Israel to pull out fully and support the Lebanese armed forces.

Despite the move, Hezbollah rejects the deal, claiming it violates its rights. Israel insists it will not fully retreat until dealing with Hezbollah’s weapons, leaving the region in a state of cautious tension.