IDF Cuts Offensive Operations in Lebanon, Awaits New Deployment Orders After Deal

The IDF is preparing for a possible change in its force deployment in Lebanon, while waiting for clear instructions from Israel's political leadership. After a major reduction in offensive activity beyond the Yellow Line starting in the morning, troops are expected to begin moving south, but no withdrawal has been ordered yet.

According to the report, Israeli forces had previously expanded operations deep into Lebanese territory, reaching the Litani River and the Saluki area. Now, operations outside the Yellow Line have been scaled back, while within the buffer zone the IDF continues destroying Hezbollah infrastructure and removing immediate threats.

The military says it is holding its current positions for now. Defense Minister Israel Katz has said the IDF will not withdraw from the area, and Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi instructed troops to keep control of the buffer zone and maintain air superiority there until a different decision is made in Jerusalem.

The shift comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a framework agreement with Iran that, according to reports, includes Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon. N12 also reported that the deal includes $24 billion in relief for Iran. Meanwhile, Hezbollah claims it has carried out no activity since the agreement was announced, and the report says Shiite civilians have begun returning to villages beyond the Yellow Line.