Talks focus on Lebanese Army deployment and preventing Hezbollah’s return to southern border areas
Israeli Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir met US Marine Forces Central Command Commander Lt.-Gen. Joseph Clearfield on Wednesday to strengthen coordination over security developments in southern Lebanon, according to reports.
The discussions centred on mechanisms involving Israel, the Lebanese Army and Hezbollah as efforts continue to implement security arrangements following recent regional tensions. The meeting came amid a series of high-level consultations between Israeli and US officials aimed at facilitating the Lebanese Army’s deployment into additional areas of southern Lebanon while enabling phased Israeli troop withdrawals.
Clearfield previously served as the principal US coordinator overseeing military communication between Israel and Lebanon before the 2026 conflict, supported by a team of approximately 30 American military officials. Reports indicate discussions are ongoing regarding the future structure and responsibilities of that coordination mission.
Israel urges sustained pressure on Hezbollah
During the meeting, Zamir reiterated Israel’s position that security coordination, conflict de-escalation and troop redeployments must remain separate from any Iranian influence. Israeli officials also argued that Hezbollah is currently at one of its weakest points in recent years and stressed that the opportunity should not be lost by allowing the group to rebuild its military capabilities.
Israeli officials further highlighted what they described as improved alignment between the Lebanese government and Israeli security objectives, calling for continued international support to maintain stability in southern Lebanon.
Concerns remain over Lebanese Army’s long-term role
Despite ongoing cooperation, Israeli military officials continue to express doubts about the Lebanese Army’s ability to prevent Hezbollah from re-establishing its presence along the border over the long term.
Israeli officials noted that the Lebanese Army responded to hundreds of Israeli complaints regarding alleged Hezbollah ceasefire violations during 2025. However, they also claimed the army’s efforts later slowed, raising concerns about its willingness and capacity to confront the armed group consistently.
According to Israeli assessments, structural challenges within Lebanon’s security institutions and Hezbollah’s military capabilities remain significant obstacles. Israel continues urging US officials to address those concerns while supporting long-term security arrangements in southern Lebanon.
