Lebanon enters a phase of anticipation following President Michel Aoun's visit to the United States, as attention shifts from the meetings in Washington to translating their outcomes on the ground, particularly in the south. The upcoming period is viewed as a true test of the U.S.'s ability to transform political commitments into concrete actions, starting with the completion of the Israeli withdrawal and accompanying army deployment, paving the way for the return of residents and reconstruction efforts.
Focus now turns to the anticipated role of General Joseph Clasfield, head of the committee overseeing the ceasefire arrangements. Clasfield is expected to engage both Lebanese and Israeli sides to advance the fulfillment of commitments, amid official belief that success in this track is crucial to establishing stability in the south.
Party Politics and Deception
The presidential visit, widely deemed successful except by Hezbollah, was marked by an intriguing call from Speaker Nabih Berri congratulating President Aoun on his safe return. There is speculation on whether Berri will soon visit the Presidential Palace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah continues to escalate tensions, with Hassan Fadlallah, a member of the “Loyalty to the Resistance” bloc, stating that the framework agreement did not lead to the withdrawal of any occupying forces and warning against illusions of achievements in the country.
Military Leadership on the Ground
On the ground, Commander of the Army, General Rudolf Haykal, visited the town of Western Zoutr, inspecting army deployments and reviewing measures in challenging conditions. He emphasized securing a safe return for residents and praised the soldiers' dedication and morale despite the risks.
Recovery and Assistance Operations
The Red Cross and health authorities entered the town accompanied by a Lebanese army patrol to retrieve remains of those killed in recent conflicts. For the third day, residents gathered at the army checkpoint hoping to return to their homes and assess their properties.
Facilitating Return
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam chaired a meeting at the Saray to discuss practical steps to facilitate the return of southerners to their villages. He affirmed that the state, through army deployment and infrastructure restoration, is committed to supporting residents during the resettlement process, ensuring dignity and temporary accommodations.
Israeli Explosions and Infiltrations
Conversely, the Israeli army conducted a major explosion in the town of Tayra, Bent Jbeil district. An Israeli force advanced into the town of Serbine, with accompanying heavy gunfire, while continuous Israeli movements persisted in the region overnight, leaving local villagers in distress.
Potential Waste Crisis
A ministerial committee tasked with revising customs tariffs met, expressing concerns over an impending waste crisis. The committee reviewed proposals to amend tariffs, aiming to mitigate their negative social and economic impacts, especially concerning food and fuel costs.
Nuclear Accord Conditional
In the regional context, amid U.S. strikes on Iran and responses targeting the Gulf, President Donald Trump declared that approval of a nuclear energy agreement with Saudi Arabia hinges on Saudi joining the Abraham Accords. Trump recently ratified a civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia for three decades, allowing American companies to construct reactors and develop nuclear infrastructure in the kingdom.