Israeli Troops Begin Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon Under Ceasefire Agreement

The withdrawal marks a key step in implementing a truce that ended over two months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with Lebanese forces and UN peacekeepers taking control.

Israeli forces have withdrawn from the town of Khiam in southern Lebanon, the first step in a 60-day withdrawal process outlined in a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.
Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL peacekeepers have been deployed to the area to maintain stability and oversee the transition.
The ceasefire, in effect since November 27, ended a two-month conflict that resulted in approximately 4,000 deaths in Lebanon and significant destruction in Hezbollah strongholds.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the potential for the agreement to restore lasting calm and enable safe returns for residents on both sides of the border.
The Lebanese Prime Minister and U.S. Central Command have hailed the withdrawal as a critical step toward durable peace and stability in the region.