The Lebanese army has begun deploying to the south of the country, nearly three weeks after a cease-fire in the war between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect. IDF troops remain active in areas close to the border and plan to stay there for another four weeks until their scheduled withdrawal.
The Lebanese military, which recently entered the region, is reportedly conducting operations to locate Hezbollah weapons, including rockets and launchers, near the Litani and Saluki rivers, according to the IDF.
A U.S.-led international commission assembled to monitor the situation on the ground has also begun its work, though it remains in the early stages. "UNIFIL is still here, and we are exercising our right to act against any violations of the cease-fire," the IDF said.
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While the IDF has avoided operations in most Hezbollah-controlled villages in southern Lebanon, it has significantly weakened the Iran-backed terrorist group’s capabilities. Over two-thirds of Hezbollah’s firepower and anti-aircraft systems have been destroyed, and much of its leadership eliminated. The group's ability to rearm has also been disrupted by the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria.
IDF troops operating in southern Lebanon
(Video: IDF)
IDF forces in Lebanon have reported observing Hezbollah operatives in villages further from the border but do not engage them unless they are seen carrying weapons or munitions that could pose a threat.
"We are still scanning the area and discovering more attack tunnels, some stretching dozens of meters," said Lt. Col. Zohar Yaakovi. "The implementation of the cease-fire deal is slow and incremental, but we are taking steps to ensure the security of Galilee residents."