Lebanese Army Deploys to Zawtar al-Gharbiya Under US Deal

The Lebanese Armed Forces deployed to the southern town of Zawtar al-Gharbiya on July 22, 2026, initiating a United States-brokered framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel. This pilot zone program, established in June, seeks to transition control of southern Lebanon to the Lebanese army in stages, focusing on a strip of land approximately 10 kilometers deep where fighting since March destroyed dozens of villages.

Under the agreement, the Lebanese army must establish itself as the only official armed force in designated areas and disarm Hezbollah. Following the withdrawal of Israeli troops, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam visited the village to plant a national flag. However, the operation faced immediate danger when two Red Cross paramedics were wounded by a landmine while recovering bodies.

Reactions to the deployment are divided. While Israeli officials described the agreement as an important step toward long-term peace despite doubts about Hezbollah's disarmament, Lebanese residents and Hezbollah supporters viewed the deal as a surrender. President Joseph Aoun defended the framework as the best available option given current power balances. Prime Minister Salam maintained that Lebanon remains determined to secure a full withdrawal from all its territory.