IDF Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon Marks Key Step in Ceasefire Agreement

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have completed their withdrawal from positions in southern Lebanon for the first time since the announcement of a ceasefire last month. This strategic move sees the IDF exchanging positions with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), as part of the ongoing peace agreement aimed at stabilizing the region.

General Michael Kurilla, commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), visited Beirut on Wednesday to oversee the process. During his visit, he met with General Joseph Aoun, the commander of Lebanon’s armed forces, to discuss the next steps in the ceasefire agreement. CENTCOM officials confirmed that the discussions included efforts to establish a lasting cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon.

Kurilla described the IDF’s withdrawal as an "important first step" in implementing a long-term cessation of hostilities in the region. He emphasized that this move lays the foundation for future progress in peace negotiations. The IDF also confirmed that while it was withdrawing from the area, it would remain deployed in Lebanon to safeguard Israel from any potential threats.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati hailed the deployment of Lebanese army units in the southern areas of Khayyam and Marjayoun as a significant step in bolstering Lebanon’s security. Mikati emphasized that this move is crucial for reinforcing the country's southern defenses and complying with the ceasefire resolution.