Chief of Staff Zamir: Lebanon Deal is Historic, Operational Achievements Created the Conditions

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir on Sunday provided the military establishment's first formal assessment of the newly signed agreement with the Lebanese government. During a situational assessment at the Northern Command, Zamir linked the diplomatic achievement directly to the IDF's kinetic operations, stating that "the operational strength and military achievements that the IDF achieved in recent months are what created the conditions for this." While the agreement outlines a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, Zamir utilized his visit to approve plans for continued operations in the sector. He emphasized that the IDF remains in a high state of readiness to respond to any breaches of the agreement. "We will honor the agreement and work for its success," Zamir said, according to remarks provided by the military, while adding a firm caveat: "The test now is one of action by both sides, and the coming period will determine the future." The Chief of Staff specifically addressed the troops currently holding strategic positions, including the 36th Division and Commando units stationed on the Beaufort Ridge. He noted that the safety of Israeli forces remains the top priority during this transitional phase. Zamir's remarks serve as a bridge between political declarations and the reality on the ground. By framing the deal as a product of military success rather than a concession, the IDF leadership signals that it maintains the initiative. The "test of action" Zamir cited refers to the ability of the Lebanese state to demonstrate control and prevent Hezbollah from re-establishing its presence in the border region.