Israel has begun a pilot partial withdrawal of troops from southern Lebanon – CNN

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have launched a pilot program for a partial withdrawal of troops from southern Lebanon, transferring control over three populated areas to the Lebanese Armed Forces. This was reported by CNN, citing a statement from the Israeli military, writes UNN.

Details

The IDF stated that they are adjusting their military presence in one of the pilot areas to enable the Lebanese army to perform its functions, while preserving Israel's right to self-defense and response to potential threats.

According to the Israeli military, the pilot project is intended to test the ability of the Lebanese Armed Forces to ensure sovereignty and security in three designated villages. The process, it is noted, will be monitored by the United States.

Israel does not plan to completely leave southern Lebanon

According to CNN, the partial reduction of military presence is provided for by a 14-point framework agreement concluded between Israel and Lebanon with U.S. mediation. Earlier, the U.S. State Department announced the launch of a program covering three villages near the so-called "yellow line" that separates the Israeli-occupied territory in Lebanon.

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The statement on the start of the program's implementation was released on the eve of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun's visit to Washington, where he is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump.

At the same time, the Israeli side emphasized that it has no intention of fully withdrawing troops from Lebanon until the Iran-backed Hezbollah group is disarmed. The IDF stated that Israeli forces will remain in the "security zone" as long as necessary to protect communities in northern Israel.

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