Lebanese Army Enters Zawtar al-Gharbiya After Israeli Withdrawal — First Test of US-Brokered Framework

On July 21, 2026, the Lebanese army deployed into Zawtar al-Gharbiya after Israeli forces withdrew — the first implementation of a US-brokered framework signed June 2026. The accord pairs phased Israeli pullouts with Lebanese army deployments to prevent Hezbollah's return. Zawtar is one of three pilot zones. PM Salam called it "just the beginning," eyeing full Israeli withdrawal.