Israel Begins Withdrawal From Southern Lebanon, Local Official Disputes

The Israeli military announced on Monday that it has started withdrawing troops from towns in southern Lebanon, a region it has occupied. The army stated that the withdrawal is being carried out in phases and in coordination with the U.S. military and the Lebanese armed forces. It warned that any violation of the agreement would be met with a forceful response. However, the mayor of the southern Lebanese town of Froun contradicted the Israeli and Lebanese armies' claims. Speaking to Al Jazeera, he said Israeli forces have not yet left the town. "This is just talk. There have been no new developments in the town of Froun. The situation remains unchanged," he said. The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The Israeli military has occupied several Lebanese villages since the conflict escalated earlier this year. The withdrawal is part of a broader ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States. The situation on the ground remains unclear, with reports suggesting that while some Israeli troops may have redeployed, full withdrawal has not occurred. The Lebanese government has called for a complete and verifiable Israeli pullout from all occupied territories. International observers have been monitoring the border area, but access is limited. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has urged both sides to exercise restraint and adhere to the ceasefire terms.