First Since the Pullback: Lebanese Army Finds Hezbollah Weapons Cache in a Pilot Zone

The Lebanese army has found a Hezbollah weapons cache in one of the pilot areas in the country’s south, according to a report Monday evening on Kan 11. As far as is known, this is the first time since the pilot model was implemented under the ceasefire framework that the Lebanese army has identified a target belonging to the terror organization.

The joint coordination mechanism among the U.S., Lebanon, and Israel was updated following the discovery. According to the report, diplomatic sources said the development points to the effectiveness of the existing coordination mechanism, and noted that this success could encourage the Lebanese army’s continued involvement in efforts to disarm Hezbollah.

The development comes about a week after the IDF completed its withdrawal from the pilot areas in southern Lebanon. The three pilot villages are meant to serve as a “test” of the Lebanese army’s ability to function as the only official force authorized to hold weapons in the area. Under the framework, if Hezbollah violates the agreement, the IDF will act through the coordination cell operating with American mediation.

The pilot program was launched alongside Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to the White House last week, where he met with President Donald Trump. During the meeting, Trump addressed the possibility of American involvement with Hezbollah as well: “There is the ‘Hezbollah problem.’ I’m willing to speak with Hezbollah. I’m willing to speak with everyone. If President Aoun wants me to speak with them—I’ll do it.”

Trump added: “The Abraham Accords were a tremendous success, and I believe we’ll see more countries joining soon.” He also said: “No one left the agreement even during the conflict, and I believe Lebanon has a very important place.”