Israel-Lebanon border: Withdrawal tied to Lebanese Army capabilities

Military operations and diplomatic discussions regarding the Israeli presence in southern Lebanon continue to focus on the role of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee has indicated that any Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory is contingent upon the LAF's ability to assert control and disarm Hezbollah. This approach, supported by the United States, aims to prevent a security vacuum that could allow Hezbollah to regain its capabilities.

On the ground, Israeli military actions have targeted infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Reports indicate a strategy of destroying underground structures and civilian infrastructure to prevent Hezbollah from utilizing them. Satellite imagery shows significant damage to dozens of towns within a 10-kilometer zone along the border, contributing to a displacement crisis involving over 340,000 people.

While Israel maintains strategic positions, such as the Ali al-Tahir hill, to exert fire control over areas south of the Litani River, Hezbollah has reportedly transitioned to guerrilla warfare tactics. Negotiations mediated by the U.S. seek to establish a gradual withdrawal mechanism where the LAF assumes security responsibilities as Israeli forces vacate controlled areas.