Lebanese Army Says First Phase to Disarm Hezbollah in South Is Complete

Overview

• The army says it now controls the area south of the Litani River except for positions still held by Israeli forces near the border.
• Troops will continue clearing unexploded ordnance and inspecting tunnels attributed to Hezbollah.
• Military leaders pledge measures to prevent armed groups from rebuilding their capabilities in the sector.
• Israel criticizes the scope of the effort, with Gideon Saar and the prime minister’s office calling for full disarmament.
• Israel maintains five border positions and conducts frequent strikes since the 2024 truce, while Hezbollah refuses to disarm nationwide and Washington presses Lebanon to advance the plan.