Weekly roundup of world briefs

IDF confirms launch of ‘Safe Zone’ pilot program in Southern Lebanon

(JNS) — The Israel Defense Forces on Monday night confirmed the launch of a “Safe Zone” pilot program in Southern Lebanon that will see Israeli troops redeploy from designated areas.

“In accordance with the directives from the political echelon, the ‘Safe Zone’ pilot program began today (Monday) in southern Lebanon, in cooperation with the U.S. military and the Lebanese Armed Forces,” the IDF stated.

“As part of the pilot, teams from the IDF, the U.S. military, and the Lebanese Armed Forces are conducting coordination and pla...