U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa toured the region during the first visit by a U.S. representative to southern Lebanon since the 2006 war.
Issa traveled to Zawtar al-Gharbiyya with a delegation from Lebanon’s Council for Development and Reconstruction and inspected the temporary crossing in Kakaiyat al-Jisr.
He pledges support for reconstruction
The visit also included Müjde Church, which was damaged in nearby Israeli attacks. From the church, the ambassador observed the Zawtar al-Sharqiyyeh area, where Israeli forces are stationed and homes continue to be demolished.
While Issa was at the church, an Israeli drone flew over the building.
During a meeting with Zawtar al-Gharbiyya Mayor Abed Izzeddine, Issa was told that access to some neighborhoods near Israeli positions was unavailable. The ambassador said he would support the reconstruction of the area.
Temporary crossing over the Litani River
Issa’s next stop was the temporary crossing built over the Litani River to replace a bridge destroyed by Israeli attacks in March.
Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Works opened the crossing on Tuesday, restoring a direct road connection between the Nabatieh and Bint Jbeil districts.
Since October 2023, Lebanon has faced extensive destruction, severe damage to infrastructure and housing, and deepening economic losses following two deadly attacks.
Framework agreement signed in Washington
Lebanon and Israel signed a U.S.-led framework agreement in Washington on June 26. The agreement provides for the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the areas that are vacated.
However, Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon continue, and Israeli forces remain present in some areas of the south. Some of these areas have been under occupation for decades, while others have remained occupied since the latest wars and military operations.
