Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, from the western town of Zawtar in the south, confirmed that what the region is witnessing represents “the beginning of the Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory,” stressing that the state’s goal is to achieve complete withdrawal from all Lebanese territory. Salam said that the government will continue its political and diplomatic efforts to achieve this goal, stressing that the state has begun to harness its capabilities to accompany the return of people to their villages. He pointed out that the Lebanese army and security forces are present to protect returning citizens, pointing out that work is continuing to open roads, remove rubble, and secure basic services, allowing for a safe and dignified return to homes. He added that preparations have begun to restore water, electricity, and communications services, and to secure ready-made housing necessary for the transitional phase, stressing that "returning life to the south is not just a slogan, but rather a national goal to which the state is committed." Salam stressed that the return of the people to their land represents “the truest expression of Lebanon’s unity and sovereignty.”