Source: Kataeb.org
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Monday 20 July 2026 16:37:45
U.S. Announces Launch of First Pilot Zones in Southern Lebanon
The United States announced Monday the launch of the first pilot zone operations in southern Lebanon, marking the initial phase of implementing the U.S.-brokered trilateral framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel following negotiations held in Rome last week.
In a statement, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said pilot zone operations had begun in the southern Lebanese villages of Froun, Srifa and Zawtar al-Gharbiya.
"Today, pilot zone operations began in the villages of Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar Al-Gharbiya in accordance with the Trilateral Framework and under the auspices of the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon," Pigott said.
He described the launch of the pilot zones as a significant milestone in the implementation of the agreement.
"This milestone is a direct outcome of last week's discussions between Israel and Lebanon in Rome," he added.
Pigott reaffirmed Washington's commitment to continuing its mediation efforts and ensuring the agreement is fully implemented.
"The United States will continue working closely with both parties to implement the Framework to a successful conclusion," he said.
The pilot zones are part of the U.S.-brokered trilateral framework agreement signed by Israel and Lebanon on June 26, aimed at gradually implementing security arrangements in southern Lebanon and reducing the risk of renewed conflict along the border.
Under the framework, Israel is expected to carry out phased withdrawals from selected areas it has occupied in southern Lebanon, while the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) deploy to those areas to assume security responsibilities. The process is overseen by the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon, a U.S.-led mechanism that coordinates implementation between Israel and Lebanon.
The initial pilot zones are intended to test the handover mechanism before it is expanded to additional areas. U.S. officials have said further Israeli withdrawals would depend on the successful deployment of the Lebanese army and its ability to establish state control and prevent armed groups from reestablishing a military presence.