U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa traveled to the areas of Zawtar al-Gharbiyah and Kakaiyat al-Jisr in southern Lebanon in the first visit by a U.S. representative to the region since the 2006 war.
Issa also inspected a temporary crossing over the Litani River with a delegation from Lebanon’s Council for Development and Reconstruction. The crossing was established to replace a bridge destroyed by Israeli attacks in March.
The temporary crossing restored the land connection
Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Works opened the crossing on Tuesday. This restored a direct land connection between the districts of Nabatieh and Bint Jbeil.
Lebanon is facing widespread destruction, severe damage to infrastructure and homes, and mounting economic losses following two deadly attacks since October 2023.
He visited a church damaged by Israeli attacks
Issa’s itinerary also included the Church of the Annunciation in Zawtar al-Gharbiyah. From the church, which was damaged by nearby Israeli attacks, the ambassador viewed the Zawtar al-Sharqiyah area, where Israeli forces are stationed and home demolitions are continuing.
An Israeli drone flew over the church during Issa’s visit.
Issa met with Zawtar al-Gharbiyah Mayor Abed Izzeddine. Some neighborhoods near Israeli positions could not be reached. The ambassador pledged support for the area’s reconstruction.
Attacks continue despite the Lebanon-Israel agreement
Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in Washington on June 26 under U.S. leadership. The agreement calls for the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the areas that are vacated.
Despite this, Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon continue, and Israeli forces maintain their presence at some positions in the area. The occupation of some of these areas has continued for decades, while the occupation of others has continued since the latest wars and military operations.
