What does the “pilot zones” framework agreement aim to test in south Lebanon?

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The "Pilot Zones" Framework Agreement Aims to Test the Lebanese Army's Capacity to Disarm Hezbollah in Specific Areas

The "pilot zones" framework agreement, a US-sponsored initiative, is designed to assess the Lebanese army's ability to disarm Hezbollah in designated areas following an Israeli troop withdrawal. This process is intended as a precursor to a broader, phased Israeli withdrawal from other occupied territories in southern Lebanon. Zawtar al-Gharbiya has been identified as one of the initial "pilot zones" where this framework is being implemented.
Disarming Hezbollah in Designated Areas

Under the terms of the agreement, the Lebanese army is tasked with disarming Hezbollah within these "pilot zones" subsequent to Israeli troop movements. This operation is seen as a crucial test of the Lebanese state's capacity to assert control and manage the security situation in areas previously influenced or occupied by Hezbollah. The deployment of the Lebanese army in Zawtar al-Gharbiya, for instance, has involved the seizure of weapons and the dismantling of explosive devices, as reported by a soldier on condition of anonymity.
Facilitating Gradual Israeli Withdrawal

The successful implementation of the disarming process in these pilot zones is intended to build confidence and create conditions conducive to a gradual Israeli withdrawal from other parts of southern Lebanon. This phased approach aims to manage the transition of security responsibilities and reduce tensions along the border. The framework agreement, reaching its initial stages in June, is directly linked to this objective of enabling Israel to pull back its forces over time.
Zawtar al-Gharbiya as an Initial Test Case

The village of Zawtar al-Gharbiya serves as one of the first practical applications of this framework. Following an Israeli withdrawal from its immediate outskirts, the Lebanese army began its deployment, with residents like Hassan Sbeih expressing reassurance and hope for the return of normalcy. The army's presence has been met with a relatively calm reception from locals, who have begun returning to assess their damaged properties, though full access has been restricted during initial security sweeps.
Challenges and Expert Doubts

Despite the deployment, experts have voiced concerns regarding the broader applicability and success of this framework. Military analyst Fadi Daoud noted that the relative calm and political symbolism in Zawtar al-Gharbiya, coupled with direct US pressure, contributed to the initial progress. However, replicating this in larger, more complex areas where Hezbollah remains resistant to disarming is considered a significant challenge. Doubts persist about the Lebanese army's authority and capacity to act, particularly if faced with Hezbollah's objections to searches for tunnels or weapons depots, especially given the military's lack of explicit legal authorization for private property inspections.

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What does the “pilot zones” framework agreement aim to test in south Lebanon?

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