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

Lebanese soldiers entered Zawtar al-Gharbiya on July 21, 2026, after Israeli forces withdrew — the first implementation of a US-brokered accord from June 2026. The deal pairs phased Israeli pullouts with Lebanese army deployments to block Hezbollah's return. Zawtar is one of three pilot zones. PM Salam called it "just the beginning," aiming for full Israeli withdrawal.