Only Around 50 Families Return to Zawtar al-Gharbiyye After Israeli Withdrawal

ZAWTAR AL-GHARBIYYE, LEBANON – AUGUST 2026: Destroyed and severely damaged homes, businesses and public spaces in Zawtar al-Gharbiyye, southern Lebanon, one month after Israeli forces withdrew from the village and the Lebanese Army deployed in the area on July 21. The deployment followed a U.S.-brokered framework agreed between Lebanon and Israel on June 26, establishing “pilot zones” combining the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces with the deployment of the Lebanese Army and the transfer of areas to state control. Electricity, water and other essential services remain severely disrupted. Mayor Abed Ezzeddine told MedPress that only around 50 families had returned, while nearby Israeli positions and the regular presence of drones continue to fuel insecurity among residents. Photo by J.I. Mota / MedPress