The IDF announced Tuesday that it is repositioning forces in parts of southern Lebanon as the Lebanese Army assumes responsibility for additional areas under a pilot program aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s illegal military infrastructure.

As part of the initiative, Lebanese Army forces have entered three areas along the Ali al-Taher Ridge and the Nabatieh Valley to test their ability to operate as the sole armed authority in the region. Israeli officials described the move as a “sovereignty test” for the Lebanese military, with the final framework still under evaluation.

The IDF said Israel will retain full freedom of operation and the right to self-defense throughout the process. Any violations of the agreement by Hezbollah will be addressed through the U.S.-mediated coordination mechanism, officials said.

Meanwhile, IDF combat engineers have completed inspections of Hezbollah tunnels in the Beaufort Ridge area and are awaiting approval from Israel’s political leadership to demolish them. Troops from the 36th Division also continue operations against dozens of Hezbollah terrorists believed to be hiding in tunnel networks along the Ali al-Taher Ridge. According to the IDF, the terrorists have recently run out of food.

Israeli officials said the U.S.-supervised pilot is intended to ensure the Lebanese Army becomes the only authorized armed force in southern Lebanon while advancing the disarmament of Hezbollah. Israel also said it will remain in the security zone for as long as necessary to protect northern communities and preserve the IDF’s ability to eliminate threats.

As part of the latest phase, the Lebanese Army has assumed responsibility for the villages of Froun and Srifa, while Israel is evaluating its performance before deciding whether to transfer security responsibility for additional areas.

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