Israel Hands Over Lebanon Pilot Zones Under US Deal

Israeli forces began transferring control of specific pilot zones in southern Lebanon to the Lebanese army following a U.S.-brokered agreement. The deal mandates a phased Israeli withdrawal in exchange for the disarmament of Hezbollah, though the militant group remains opposed to the agreement and direct talks between Lebanon and Israel.

In Zawtar al-Gharbieh, one of the pilot zones, approximately 15 families have returned to find widespread devastation. Local officials report that nearly half of the village's 500 homes were destroyed. Israel Katz, the Israeli Defense Minister, stated that the military destroyed 24 villages and up to 20,000 houses, asserting that these areas contained Hezbollah operatives.

While the Lebanese Armed Forces have established a presence in these zones and are clearing debris, residents report continued insecurity caused by drone activity and the presence of Israeli troops in adjacent areas, such as Zawtar al-Sharqiyah, which remains fully occupied. Technical teams from Lebanon and Israel are scheduled to meet in Rome starting August 4 to identify and discuss additional pilot zones for handover.