Netanyahu Announces Limited Israeli Withdrawal From Southern Lebanon

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will conduct a limited withdrawal from two pilot zones in southern Lebanon, transferring control to the Lebanese military. This decision follows talks in Washington and pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who urged Israeli restraint to protect a 60-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered by the United States and Iran.

These developments occur amid a broader conflict that began in March after an Israeli strike killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tensions remain high as Israeli forces conducted two airstrikes near Nabatiyeh. Hezbollah rejected claims by Israeli institutions that its forces had seized Ali al-Taher Hill on the eastern outskirts of Nabatiyeh, asserting that the heights remain under the control of its fighters.

Hezbollah continues to oppose any agreement that does not ensure a total withdrawal of Israeli forces. During a massive Ashura procession in Beirut on June 27, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem demanded that Israel leave Lebanese land unconditionally and rejected demands to disarm. The Lebanese government remains engaged in U.S.-mediated negotiations to secure a broader Israeli exit from the region.