Hurdles Remain Ahead of 7th Round of Lebanon-Israel Negotiations in Rome

Lebanon and Israel are preparing for their seventh round of negotiations in Rome on Tuesday, with Beirut aiming to advance the implementation of a US-sponsored "framework agreement." However, significant hurdles remain, primarily Israel's ongoing demolitions and detonations in southern Lebanon and a deep division over Hezbollah's weapons.

Internal Lebanese discussions on disarming Hezbollah have been minimal, and the Iran-backed party continues to reject disarmament. Israel, in turn, is linking its withdrawal from southern Lebanon to Hezbollah laying down its arms. The upcoming talks will address Lebanon's demands for an end to Israeli attacks and demolitions, alongside a full Israeli withdrawal.

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I am encouraged that talks in Rome remain ongoing, and I hope both governments reach a successful outcome.

Informed ministerial sources revealed that the issue of Hezbollah's weapons remains unresolved, with no progress made on the matter. "The issue is not being discussed in Lebanon," they noted, highlighting Hezbollah's continued opposition to the framework agreement and its "pilot zones" program. Meanwhile, Israel persists with its demolition activities in the south.

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A great deal of technical work remains to ensure civilian safety on the ground. There is a meaningful difference between drafting an agreement on paper and implementing it responsibly, moving too quickly risks jeopardizing the very civilians this process is meant to protect.

Sources suggest a breakthrough is unlikely before Israel's elections in October. A previous proposal for Hezbollah to hand over its heavy weapons as an initial step was rejected by the party, and Israel has not taken any significant steps to facilitate progress. US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa expressed optimism about the ongoing talks, emphasizing the importance of thorough technical work to ensure civilian safety. He cautioned against moving too quickly, stating, "Doing so will allow subsequent pilot zones to move forward more efficiently. Above all, both sides must agree on a clear, workable process before proceeding."

Lebanon's Agriculture Minister Nizar Hani reiterated Beirut's clear objectives: ending Israeli aggression and achieving a full withdrawal. He noted continued US interest in the Lebanese file and ongoing contacts between Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, and the party. Hani expressed hope that Hezbollah would avoid escalating conflict with Israel amid potential US-Iran tensions. Officials from Hezbollah and the Amal movement, however, continued to voice their opposition to the agreement and negotiations.

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We believe it is better to take the time needed to get this right the first time. Doing so will allow subsequent pilot zones to move forward more efficiently. Above all, both sides must agree on a clear, workable process before proceeding.