Israel Tells Lebanon Its Southern Buffer Zone Is Complete, Eyes Political Steps

During talks held in the United States, Israel informed Lebanon that the IDF has completed the security belt in southern Lebanon and reached all of its pre-set positions. Senior Israeli officials said this now opens the way for political steps, provided the Lebanese army commits to preventing Hezbollah operatives from returning to areas the IDF would vacate.

According to the report by Kan News, the discussions were tense and centered on the main dispute between the sides. Israel wants to keep the original buffer zone drawn up in April, including the anti-tank missile line, while Lebanon is demanding a withdrawal from areas inside the original yellow line, including the villages of Majdal Zun, Zibqin, Beit Lif, A-Tiri and Kounin.

The senior officials said Israel is not prepared to pull back from the anti-tank line or from the Beaufort ridge, but is considering withdrawal from other areas. As part of a pilot arrangement, an American coordination mechanism will oversee activity between the IDF and the Lebanese army.

Once a decision is made, IDF forces are expected to spend several days preparing for the withdrawal while securing the troops. The next stage will depend on Lebanese army assurances that Hezbollah will not re-enter the evacuated zones.