Lebanese army deploys after Israeli pullout

The Lebanese army has begun deploying troops to the southern town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh following the

The Lebanese army has begun deploying troops to the southern town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh following the withdrawal of Israeli forces, marking the first phase of a US-mediated security framework between Lebanon and Israel.

In an official statement, the Lebanese military said its units entered the town as part of ongoing efforts to restore security and extend state control over areas previously occupied by Israeli forces.

Engineering teams accompanied the deployment and immediately began inspecting roads, buildings and public areas for explosives, landmines and other remnants of conflict before the full deployment of security personnel.

The army urged residents to avoid returning to the town until military operations are completed and the security situation is declared safe. Citizens were also advised to follow instructions issued by the armed forces to ensure their safety.

The deployment follows the withdrawal of Israeli troops and military vehicles from Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, according to local sources.

The move is part of a broader framework agreement reached last month through US mediation. Under the arrangement, Israeli forces are expected to gradually withdraw from occupied areas in southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese army assumes responsibility for maintaining security.

The agreement also calls for the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah, in areas vacated by Israeli forces. However, no specific timetable has been announced for completing the withdrawal process.

The United States has described the deployment as the beginning of pilot operations in several southern Lebanese towns, aimed at supporting a gradual transition of security responsibilities.

Southern Lebanon has witnessed years of conflict and military confrontations. Lebanese officials say thousands of people have been killed or injured during Israeli military operations since March, while several areas in the south remain affected by damage and unexploded ordnance.