Israel, Lebanon resume talks as timeline still unclear for IDF withdrawal, Hezbollah disarmarmament

Lebanon and Israel have restarted talks in Rome, facilitated by the United States, with the goal of implementing a deal that includes an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the disarmament of militant groups, primarily Hezbollah. The US-led diplomacy gained momentum following the return to conflict between Hezbollah and Israel in March, proceeding despite significant opposition from Hezbollah.

The framework agreement, reached in Washington on June 26, outlines an end to the conflict, the disarmament of militant groups, the deployment of Lebanese troops to the south, and a progressive withdrawal of Israeli forces. Israel currently occupies what it describes as a "buffer zone" approximately 10 km into Lebanon along the border, which it deems necessary to protect northern Israeli communities from Hezbollah attacks.

However, the implementation faces considerable hurdles. Hezbollah has rejected the agreement and efforts to disarm it, while Israel has stated its troops will remain in southern Lebanon as long as Hezbollah is armed. Lebanese officials confirmed that delegations would meet at the US embassy in Rome to detail the implementation of the framework deal. Italy offered to host the talks, with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani calling Rome a "capital of peace."

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope for progress at the Rome meeting. The talks aim to move the US-brokered deal into its implementation stage, though expectations for swift progress are reportedly low. A key point of contention is the timeline for the IDF withdrawal and Hezbollah's disarmament, with the agreement's success hinging on whether the Lebanese Army can effectively secure the territory and prevent Hezbollah's resurgence.

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We are also very pleased that Rome can serve as the venue for these meetings. In this way, our capital becomes a capital of peace.