The IDF is preparing to reduce its troop presence in southern Lebanon with a new security belt positioned closer to the Israeli border, according to defense sources. The report follows earlier indications that the military is transitioning from a deep buffer zone to a more compact defensive line.
The IDF is transitioning to a more compact defensive line positioned closer to the Israeli border, according to defense sources. The development refines earlier plans for a new security belt in southern Lebanon, indicating a shift from a wider buffer zone to a narrower static forward line.
At 09:10 today, The Zioneer reported that the IDF had taken full control of Hezbollah's underground fortress on the Ali al-Taher ridge after a months-long siege, and separately that the military was preparing to reduce its forces in southern Lebanon and discussing a new security belt following the destruction of tunnel infrastructure on that ridge. The initial reports, attributed to Ynet's Itay Blumenthal and analyst Amit Segal, were corroborated by security sources. At 20:10, The Zioneer again reported on the force reduction and the new belt concept, reinforcing the timeline.
As The Zioneer reported on June 28, Israeli forces were preparing for long-term security control in southern Lebanon. On July 5, it reported that the IDF was continuing to clear a new security buffer zone. The latest plan for a compact line represents a further narrowing of the military footprint, consistent with broader operational adjustments following the Lebanon agreement.
No timeline or specific troop numbers for the force reduction have been disclosed. The transition's implementation details remain under discussion within the defense establishment.
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