Israel and Lebanon Move Closer to Pilot Project After Sixth Round of Talks in Rome

Rome, July 16: A new round of discussions between Israel and Lebanon has concluded in Rome. Both parties are nearing the initiation of a pilot project. This project aims to transfer control of certain areas in southern Lebanon from the Israeli military to the Lebanese army.

According to a report by Italy’s news agency Agenzia Nova on Wednesday, the two nations have made progress on a system for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the first two pilot zones in southern Lebanon. They have also agreed to continue discussions moving forward.

Sources connected to the negotiations indicated that this development occurred after the conclusion of the sixth round of talks, mediated by the United States. The primary focus of these discussions was on implementing the framework agreement reached in Washington on June 26. During this time, both sides clarified the processes, sequence, and conditions for the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), the disarmament of Hezbollah, and ensuring effective control of the relevant areas by the Lebanese government.

Sources noted that both Israel and Lebanon acknowledge that this process will take time. Lebanon aims to restore its sovereignty in the south while avoiding internal instability. Meanwhile, Israel emphasizes the need for verifiable security guarantees to prevent areas vacated by its forces from falling back under Hezbollah’s control.

Furthermore, Israel has stated that the complete withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is contingent upon the LAF’s ability to maintain control over the area and advance the disarmament of Hezbollah’s weapons.

The sixth round of talks took place at the U.S. Embassy in Rome. The previous round was held in Washington at the end of last month, aimed at advancing the ceasefire framework. Both parties have also agreed to another round of discussions, with the date yet to be determined.

Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani remarked that hosting this meeting demonstrates Italy’s role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.