Israel and Lebanon to continue talks in Italy in early August

Italy will host the next round of U.N.-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon, with negotiations scheduled for August 4. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the date, marking a continuation of efforts to establish peace between the two neighboring countries, which technically remain in a state of war and lack diplomatic relations.

These discussions moved to Italy after the sixth round of talks were held in Rome last week. Previously, the U.S. hosted talks in late June, where a framework agreement was reached. This agreement's goal is "lasting peace and security" between the nations. It outlines the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, their replacement by Lebanese armed forces, and the disarmament of the Iran-backed militant group Hamas.

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lasting peace and security

On Tuesday, the Lebanese army began deploying soldiers to "pilot zones" in the southern part of the country that had been under Israeli control. However, the Israeli army continues to occupy what it calls a buffer zone, extending about ten kilometers into Lebanon along their shared border. This occupation has resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands of Lebanese who cannot return to their homes, as their villages are either still held by Israeli troops or have been razed, according to Reuters.

During a visit to the U.S. on Tuesday, Lebanese President Džúzíf Awn expressed his belief that an Israeli troop withdrawal could remove the "main reason for which Hezbollah has long justified its actions." He suggested that only then would it be possible to disarm the movement.

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main reason for which Hezbollah has long justified its actions