Israel Pushes New Security Measures in Southern Lebanon Including Village Mapping and Resident Restrictions

Israel has successfully persuaded the United States to draft new working documents related to the framework agreement in Lebanon, according to sources speaking to the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, affiliated with Hezbollah. The U.S. Central Command, responsible for coordinating between the Lebanese army and the Israel Defense Forces, presented a draft "implementation protocol" outlining operational mechanisms for the security annex's enforcement phase. The American side reportedly adopted much of Israel's approach, particularly clauses pressuring the Lebanese army to confront Hezbollah or border village residents, or to appear incapable of fulfilling its obligations. This could provide Israel with justification to maintain its occupation and avoid withdrawal.

The Israeli proposals include comprehensive mapping of southern Lebanese villages, documenting the number of houses, owners' names, shops, and religious and social institutions. Israel also demands that the Lebanese army prevent the return of certain villagers identified by Israeli intelligence as Hezbollah operatives or commanders, citing their presence as a "security risk" to Israel. These demands align with a security concept revealed in June, in which Israel aims to establish a new "security zone" in southern Lebanon free of civilian presence. The plan involves controlling the area, enabling military freedom of action against Hezbollah, and preventing the reconstruction of terrorist infrastructure, reflecting a shift in Israel's northern border security strategy.