On December 12, 2024, Israeli troops commenced their first withdrawal from a location in southern Lebanon, following a ceasefire agreement with the Islamist group Hezbollah. This development was confirmed by both U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and authorities from both Israel and Lebanon.
General Erik Kurilla of CENTCOM stated, "This is an important first step in implementing a lasting cessation of hostilities and lays the groundwork for ongoing progress," after his visit to Beirut.
The Israeli military announced that its 7th Brigade has "completed its mission in Khiam." Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati remarked that the withdrawal signifies "a fundamental step to reinforce the deployment of the army in the south."
The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect on November 27, 2024, mediated by the United States, with assistance from France, United Nations bodies, and the Israeli and Lebanese armies.
According to the agreement, over the next two months, the Lebanese army and United Nations peacekeeping forces will be deployed in southern Lebanon as Israeli forces withdraw.
This ceasefire represents a crucial initial step toward halting hostilities, following nearly a year of cross-border exchanges initiated by Hezbollah in support of its ally Hamas, after the Palestinian group's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
Hezbollah is also required to withdraw its forces from north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the border, and dismantle its military infrastructure in southern Lebanon.