Lebanese-Israeli military talks postponed over pilot zones dispute

A planned virtual meeting between Lebanese, Israeli, and US military representatives to discuss implementing pilot zones in southern Lebanon was postponed on Friday due to a dispute over the definition and location of these zones. The meeting was intended to finalize pilot zones, set a timetable for Israel's withdrawal, and expand the Lebanese army's deployment under a June 26 framework agreement. Lebanon views pilot zones as Israeli-occupied territory from which Israel must withdraw, while Israel sees them as areas to test the Lebanese army's control, not necessarily occupied land. A Lebanese military source stated, "The main obstacle is on the Israeli side," accusing Israel of demolishing houses in Zawtar Al-Gharbiyah instead of preparing to withdraw. Retired Brig. Gen. Mounir Chehade warned that Lebanon accepting deployment in non-occupied areas could acknowledge Israel's right to determine Lebanese army deployment and turn occupation into a bargaining chip.