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Israeli forces have completed their first withdrawal from a town in southern Lebanon, with the Lebanese military taking over under a ceasefire agreement, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Wednesday.
General Erik Kurilla, leader of CENTCOM, was present at the implementation and monitoring headquarters during the withdrawal in Al-Khiam. He described the withdrawal as an “important first step” in achieving a lasting cessation of hostilities and laying the groundwork for continued progress.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati praised the deployment of Lebanese troops in the Khiam and Marjayoun areas, calling it a fundamental step toward strengthening the army’s presence in the south in line with the ceasefire decision. He also expressed gratitude for the army’s efforts to establish stability in the region.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military confirmed that its 7th Brigade had completed its mission in Khiam. In coordination with the United States, Lebanese Armed Forces soldiers are now being deployed alongside UN peacekeepers (UNIFIL) in the area.
The Pentagon later reported that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, and reiterated the US’s support for the ceasefire. Austin emphasized that the ceasefire could create conditions for lasting peace, allowing residents on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border to return to their homes safely.
Israel’s military campaign in southern Lebanon escalated in late September following cross-border exchanges initiated by Hezbollah in support of Hamas after the group’s October 7 attack on Israel. A ceasefire took effect on November 27 and is largely holding, despite accusations of violations by both sides. As part of the agreement, the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers will replace Israeli forces in southern Lebanon over the next 60 days, while Hezbollah is expected to withdraw north of the Litani River and dismantle its military infrastructure in the region.