Israeli forces have begun their first withdrawal from a town in southern Lebanon, with Lebanese military troops taking their place under a ceasefire agreement, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday.
General Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM’s commander, was present at the coordination headquarters during the withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces and the deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces in Al-Khiam, Lebanon, as part of the ceasefire agreement, CENTCOM stated.
“This marks an important first step towards implementing a lasting cessation of hostilities and sets the stage for further progress,” Kurilla said in the statement.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati noted that the deployment of troops in the Khiam and Marjayoun areas is a significant step toward reinforcing the army’s presence in the south as part of the ceasefire agreement. “We commend the army’s efforts to establish stability in the south,” Mikati wrote on X.
The Israeli military announced that its 7th Brigade had completed its mission in Al-Khiam. “In line with the ceasefire terms and coordinated by the United States, Lebanese Armed Forces soldiers are being stationed in the area alongside UNIFIL, the UN peacekeeping mission,” the Israeli military statement read.
Israel ramped up its military campaign in southern Lebanon in late September following a year of cross-border exchanges initiated by Hezbollah in support of its ally Hamas after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel. A ceasefire, effective since November 27, has mostly held, though both sides have reported violations.
Under the agreement, the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers will take control of southern Lebanon as the Israeli military withdraws within 60 days. Hezbollah is also required to move its forces north of the Litani River, approximately 20 miles from the border, and dismantle its military infrastructure in the region.
