Lebanon Israel tensions entered a new phase after the Lebanese army launched a pilot security takeover in three villages in southern Lebanon under a US-mediated framework agreement aimed at easing conflict along the border.

The pilot programme covers Froun, Srifa and Zawtar al-Gharbiya, where the Lebanese Armed Forces will gradually assume security responsibilities as Israeli forces withdraw in stages.

In a statement, the US State Department described the move as an important milestone following recent talks between Lebanon and Israel in Rome. Washington said it would continue working with both sides to implement the agreement.

Under the framework, Israeli forces will gradually leave positions they currently hold in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese army will then take over security operations and supervise the removal of Hezbollah’s weapons and military infrastructure from the designated areas.

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Israel confirmed that the pilot programme had begun and said its military was coordinating with the United States and Lebanon to implement the agreement.

However, questions remain over the timetable for Israel’s withdrawal.

A Lebanese security source said the army had not yet deployed to Zawtar al-Gharbiya because Israeli troops remained stationed on the outskirts of the village.

Local officials also reported little change on the ground.

The mayor of Froun said conditions remained unchanged despite the announcement of the pilot programme. The mayor of Srifa said the Lebanese army had maintained a presence in the town throughout the conflict and that no new developments had occurred.

Lebanon, Israel and the United States reached the framework agreement on 26 June after six rounds of negotiations. The deal, however, does not include a timetable for Israel’s complete withdrawal.

Israeli officials have said they plan to maintain a security buffer extending about 10 kilometres (6 miles) inside Lebanese territory until Hezbollah is fully disarmed.

Hezbollah has rejected the agreement and insists Israel must withdraw from all Lebanese territory before any additional arrangements can move forward.

Reports suggest Israeli forces could begin withdrawing from the designated pilot zones as early as Tuesday, although officials have not announced a formal schedule.

The latest conflict between Israel and Hezbollah intensified in March, and cross-border fighting has continued despite diplomatic efforts.

Lebanese authorities say the conflict has killed more than 4,300 people and displaced over one million residents. Israel has reported dozens of military and civilian casualties since hostilities resumed.