Israeli forces maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon under a fragile June 2026 U.S.-brokered framework tied to Hezbollah disarmament, with periodic airstrikes and ground operations responding to Hezbollah drone attacks and infrastructure threats. Recent developments include IDF strikes on September 27 following an explosive drone incident, tunnel demolitions at Ali Taher Ridge using over 1,100 tons of explosives, and Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem's September 27 rally demanding full withdrawal before any disarmament talks. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met U.S. officials on September 29 to press for IDF exit and Lebanese army control, while UNIFIL prepares withdrawal amid concerns over enforcement gaps. October negotiations and verification of Hezbollah activities remain key near-term catalysts that could shift the pace of Israeli operations.