Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to securing the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Lebanese territories through political and diplomatic efforts.
Salam described the latest development as “a national moment with significant political and moral dimensions” during a visit to the southern town of Zawtar al-Gharbiyah.
He said the government would continue to pursue all available political and diplomatic channels to achieve a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
The prime minister also assured residents of southern Lebanon that the government had begun mobilising resources to support their safe return to their communities.
According to him, the Lebanese Army and other security agencies are on the ground to protect returning civilians, while efforts are ongoing to reopen roads, clear debris and restore essential services.
Salam said authorities were making arrangements to restore water, electricity and telecommunications services, as well as provide temporary shelter and other basic needs during the transition period.
Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli forces began withdrawing from parts of Zawtar al-Gharbiyah, allowing the Lebanese Army to commence deployment in the area.
The development marks the first implementation of the “pilot areas” arrangement under a United States-brokered framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel aimed at facilitating Israeli troop withdrawals and expanding Lebanese state authority in southern Lebanon.
