Southern lebanon: US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa visited parts of southern Lebanon, marking the first visit by a US envoy to the area since the 2006 war, according to Lebanon's official National News Agency (NNA). Issa's visit included tours of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh and a temporary crossing in Qa'qaiyat al-Jisr, alongside a delegation from Lebanon's Council for Development and Reconstruction.

According to Anadolu Agency, Issa visited the Annunciation Church in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, which sustained damage from nearby Israeli strikes. During his visit, Issa viewed Zawtar al-Sharqiyah from the church, where Israeli forces remain deployed and continue demolitions of homes. An Israeli drone was observed flying over the church during his visit.

Issa also held a meeting with the mayor of Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, Abed Ezzeddine, who highlighted the challenges residents face in accessing neighborhoods near Israeli positions. Ezzeddine mentioned that Issa pledged support for reconstruction efforts, though no specific timeline was provided.

The ambassador proceeded to inspect a temporary crossing in Qa'qaiyat al-Jisr, which was constructed to replace a bridge destroyed by Israeli strikes in March. The crossing over the Litani River, opened by Lebanon's Public Works Ministry, reestablished a direct road connection between Nabatieh and Bint Jbeil districts, pending the reconstruction of the original bridge.

Lebanon has endured two deadly assaults since October 2023, resulting in extensive destruction, significant damage to infrastructure and homes, and exacerbating the country's economic challenges. On June 26, Lebanon and Israel signed a US-sponsored framework agreement in Washington, outlining a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in vacated areas. Despite this agreement, Israeli forces continue to launch attacks in southern Lebanon and occupy areas in the south, with some regions held for decades and others seized during recent conflicts.