Lebanese army says troops deploying in 'pilot zone' after Israeli withdrawal

What Happened

The Lebanese Army announced on Tuesday that its troops began deploying to a 'pilot zone' in the village of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh in Nabatieh district, following the withdrawal of Israeli forces under a US-brokered agreement. The Israeli military confirmed the start of the pilot zone plan the previous night, which involves Israeli troops pulling out of a small part of occupied southern Lebanon and includes the disarmament of Hezbollah. The deployment precedes a meeting in Washington between US President Donald Trump and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, where Aoun is expected to urge Trump to pressure Israel for a full withdrawal from the rest of southern Lebanon and to support the Lebanese army in asserting control over areas where Hezbollah holds sway. The Lebanese health ministry reported that over 4,300 people have been killed in Lebanon during the conflict, including almost 800 children, women and medics, while Israeli authorities said 37 Israeli soldiers and four civilians have been killed on both sides of the border.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The pilot zone deployment marks the first concrete implementation of the US-brokered ceasefire framework, testing the willingness of both Israel and Hezbollah to comply with withdrawal and disarmament provisions. Success could de-escalate tensions and expand the Lebanese state's authority in the south, while failure could reignite hostilities. The Trump-Aoun meeting may influence the pace and scope of further Israeli withdrawals and international support for the Lebanese army.

Watch For

The outcome of the Trump-Aoun meeting and any commitments made. Whether the Israeli withdrawal from the pilot zone is completed and sustained, and if Hezbollah disarms in that area. Future deployment phases by the Lebanese army into other parts of southern Lebanon. Any cross-border incidents or violations that could derail the process.