Israel and Lebanon hold U.S.-mediated talks in Rome on southern security

Israel and Lebanon concluded the sixth round of U.S.-mediated talks in Rome on Wednesday, focusing on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. The discussions aimed to implement a framework agreement reached in Washington on June 26, which outlines the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces, the disarmament of Hezbollah, and the establishment of a 10-kilometer buffer zone. Negotiators are currently developing a pilot project to transfer control of specific, low-threat areas from Israeli forces to the Lebanese army to test its capability to prevent Hezbollah from returning. While progress was reported regarding the mechanism for this transfer, expectations for swift implementation remain low due to ongoing hostilities and Hezbollah’s rejection of disarmament terms. Israel insists that its troops will maintain positions until the militant group is disarmed, while Hezbollah continues to oppose the deal. Regional tensions, including recent U.S.-Iranian friction, complicate the broader diplomatic process. The parties have agreed to continue negotiations at a future date.