The Lebanese army began deploying troops in a designated "pilot zone" in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, following an Israeli withdrawal from a small area previously occupied during its conflict with Hezbollah. The move comes as part of a US-brokered agreement aimed at de-escalating long-standing tensions along the border.

The agreement outlines a phased Israeli pullout from disputed territories, with the disarmament of the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah being a key condition for further withdrawals. Reports suggest the initial withdrawal covers a limited but strategically significant area.

Lebanese forces are moving into a "pilot zone" in southern Lebanon after Israeli troops withdrew under a US-brokered deal.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is expected to present a plan to his US counterpart, Donald Trump, during a meeting later on Tuesday. This plan will reportedly detail mechanisms for disarming Hezbollah, which Israel has consistently demanded as a prerequisite for a full withdrawal from all Lebanese territory.

Diplomatic Push for Border Stability

The current agreement marks a diplomatic push by the United States to stabilise the volatile border region, which has seen numerous conflicts and skirmishes over decades. Israel has maintained a military presence in parts of southern Lebanon since its 1978 invasion, followed by its longer occupation between 1982 and 2000, and a significant conflict with Hezbollah in 2006.

The "pilot zone" deployment is seen as a crucial first step in testing the viability of the broader US-brokered framework. It aims to establish a more secure and internationally monitored presence in areas previously contested or under Israeli control.

Hezbollah Disarmament Remains Central

Hezbollah, a powerful political party and militant organisation, maintains a significant arsenal and strong influence in southern Lebanon. Its disarmament is a complex and highly sensitive issue within Lebanese politics, posing a major challenge to any comprehensive peace agreement.

The discussions between Presidents Aoun and Trump in Washington are therefore critical. The success of the broader US initiative hinges on securing concrete commitments and a feasible plan for neutralising the group's military capabilities, which Israel views as a direct threat to its northern border.

Further details on the specific timeline for additional Israeli withdrawals and the proposed mechanisms for Hezbollah's disarmament are anticipated to emerge following the high-level talks.