Israeli forces have maintained a forward-defense posture in southern Lebanon since early October 2026, conducting ongoing airstrikes, artillery fire, and clearing operations targeting Hezbollah infrastructure despite the June framework agreement for phased withdrawal in exchange for Lebanese army deployment and Hezbollah disarmament. Recent activity includes strikes near Nabatieh and Bint Jbeil, demolition work in areas south of the Litani River, and IDF statements indicating troops could remain for years given persistent Hezbollah presence. Lebanese authorities intercepted Hezbollah-linked explosives in mid-October while pilot zones for gradual Israeli pullback have seen limited progress, with no additional deployments agreed. Upcoming government-to-government talks and winter preparations could influence the pace of de-escalation or sustained operations.