IDF Weighs Pullback to New 3-4 Kilometer 'Gray Line' in Southern Lebanon

Israel’s defense establishment is considering, but has not finalized, a plan to reduce IDF troop numbers in southern Lebanon over the coming months after the destruction of Hezbollah tunnels at Ali Taher Ridge. Under the proposal, troops would leave some forward positions, including around Beaufort north of the Litani River, and redeploy to outposts about 3-4 kilometers inside Lebanon along a new ‘Gray Line.’ The positions would support continuing operations to protect northern Israeli communities and thwart threats. The plan has not been submitted for political approval, and questions remain over whether evacuated areas would pass to the Lebanese Armed Forces and how negotiations would affect deployment.