Lebanon army begins deployment in southern area after Israel deal

A Lebanese soldier stands atop an armored personnel carrier while manning a checkpoint at the entrance to Srifa village in southern Lebanon, July 21, 2026. (AP Photo)

The Lebanese army announced on July 21 that it had begun deploying to an area in the south, one of three “pilot zones” outlined in a deal with Israel to disarm Hezbollah.

The announcement came with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visiting Washington, which sponsored the deal with Israel.

Israel invaded Lebanon during its recent war with Iran-backed militants Hezbollah and it has continued to occupy parts of the country despite a ceasefire.