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Israel, Lebanon begin border clash talks; Trump urges Israeli withdrawal

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Israel and Lebanon began two days of negotiations in Rome aimed at ending border clashes.
  • The core issue is the withdrawal of Israeli forces, but Hezbollah's refusal to disarm complicates prospects for an agreement.
  • Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to withdraw troops from Lebanon.

Israeli and Lebanese officials convened in Rome for crucial negotiations aimed at de-escalating ongoing border conflicts. The talks, described as "positive" by a U.S. State Department official, are set to continue, with both sides reportedly showing a willingness to advance the peace process.

The primary focus of the negotiations is the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from designated "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon, a plan previously agreed upon. However, Israel has delayed implementation, citing security checks. This delay has become a central point of contention, as Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed readiness to proceed with troop withdrawal from two pilot zones, anticipating progress in Rome.

The Rome talks were positive. Negotiations will continue on the 16th.

— U.S. State Department officialDescribing the initial phase of the negotiations in Rome aimed at ending border clashes between Israel and Lebanon.

Despite these efforts, significant obstacles remain. Hezbollah has outright rejected the basic agreement that includes their disarmament. Furthermore, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains a firm stance, stating that troop withdrawal is contingent on the cessation of Hezbollah's threats. This deadlock underscores the deep divisions that must be bridged for any lasting resolution.

We are prepared to advance a plan to withdraw forces from two pilot zones.

— Gideon SaarIsraeli Foreign Minister, speaking before the Rome talks, expressing readiness for troop withdrawal.

Adding another layer to the diplomatic efforts, former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to withdraw Israeli forces from Lebanon. Citing U.S. government sources, Axios reported that Trump told Netanyahu during a phone call that the presence of Israeli troops in Lebanon and Syria could escalate tensions. Trump advised Netanyahu that "they (Syria and Lebanon) don't want you there. You need to redeploy."

However, Netanyahu's office responded by emphasizing the need to establish security zones along Israel's border. Given the upcoming Israeli general election in October, analysts suggest Netanyahu is unlikely to make significant decisions regarding troop movements from occupied Syrian or Lebanese territories.

They (Syria and Lebanon) don't want you there. You need to redeploy.

— Donald TrumpReportedly urging Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to withdraw troops from Lebanon and Syria.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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